FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 26, 2026
The Osage County Republican Central Committee (OCRC) has voted to reject Presiding Commissioner Darryl Griffin’s 2026 candidacy under the Republican label for the Office of Presiding Commissioner. This rejection is final.
This decision is based on Mr. Griffin’s long-standing refusal to complete the required vetting process, failure to remit the filing fee to the committee Treasurer, and his stated intent to bypass our bylaws. We have been informed that Mr. Griffin does not intend to participate in vetting and is reportedly planning to use county taxpayer funds to challenge the committee’s authority, including hiring legal counsel.
This use of public money is particularly troubling in an election year when Osage County voters will decide on two initiatives aimed at easing the tax burden on residents and seniors. At a time when the county is considering ways to lower taxes and support our community, spending taxpayer dollars to avoid a free vetting process raises serious questions about fiscal responsibility and conservative principles.
Vetting is a free, straightforward process to ensure candidates align with the Missouri Republican Party Platform. It protects the Republican label and voter trust. Missouri law and U.S. Supreme Court precedent affirm that political parties have the right to control who may use their name on the ballot, including rejecting unwanted associations.
OCRC remains open to any candidate who completes vetting by the March 29 deadline. We encourage all conservatives interested in running as Republicans to start the process on our Candidate Vetting page.
