Conservative megadonor Leonard Leo is investing millions of dollars in the primary race for Missouri’s attorney general, backing candidate Will Scharf. Scharf, a personal attorney to Donald Trump, represented the former president in a recent Supreme Court case on immunity.
In this race, the Republican incumbent, Andrew Bailey, is also a prominent conservative figure with endorsements from the National Rifle Association, Missouri lawmakers, and law enforcement unions.
Despite Bailey’s deeply conservative agenda and rhetoric, Leo is supporting a primary challenge against him.
Bailey, since his appointment in 2023, has taken legal action against various Biden administration policies, including student loan cancellation, protections for transgender students, and federal influence on social media content moderation practices regarding Covid-19.
Despite Bailey’s conservative stance, Leo is funding a primary challenge that pits national right-wing donors against wealthy conservative Missourians, with the primary scheduled for August 6.
Leo’s Largesse vs. Old Beer Money
Campaign finance disclosures reveal that Leo and his allies are financially supporting Scharf’s bid for state attorney. Leo’s Concord Fund has contributed $3.5 million to pro-Scharf PACs, while Republican megadonor Paul Singer has added $1.5 million.
On the other hand, Bailey’s main supporting committee, Liberty and Justice PAC, is relying on wealthy Missourians for funding, including notable figures like August A. Busch III, Mike and Carolyn Rayner, and Rex and Jeanne Sinquefield.
Despite local support, Bailey faces a significant funding gap compared to Scharf’s well-funded campaign.
Bailey has not received support from the Republican Attorneys General Association, despite his involvement in various conservative efforts and coalition actions.
Longstanding Ties
Scharf has a longstanding relationship with Leonard Leo and the Concord Fund, previously known as the Judicial Crisis Network. His campaign highlights his role in building a conservative Supreme Court by aiding in the confirmations of Justices Kavanaugh and Barrett.
Scharf, who has worked closely with Leo, has received backing from key figures at CRC Advisors, the firm where Leo is involved. Leo and other members of the firm have been early supporters of Scharf’s campaign.
In the same month, Ann Corkery, who works for the 85 Fund, also made a contribution of $1,000 to Scharf’s campaign.
Several lower-ranking employees of CRC Advisors have also shown their support for Scharf’s campaign since 2022.
Observers of the race have noted that there is little difference between Scharf and Bailey on campaign issues. However, only one of them has received Leo’s endorsement and the accompanying financial support.