Melesa Johnson has become the first Black woman to be elected as Jackson County prosecutor, making her one of this year’s election history-makers.
A Democrat, she defeated Republican Tracey Chappell to succeed Jean Peters Baker, who was appointed to the position in 2011.
Johnson declared, “It’s honestly surreal. I’m excited, full, and hopeful, but know we have a lot of work to do,” according to KSHB.
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As reported by KCUR, she was an early-career attorney in Baker’s office and is now the director of public safety for Mayor Quinton Lucas. Now, she will be leading the metro area’s largest prosecutor’s office.
During her campaign, Johnson talked about her upbringing in a criminal environment.
She stated, “I’m not your average candidate for prosecutor. It’s not every day candidates for prosecutor still live in one of the most dangerous parts of Jackson County. Making history is always nice, but what I am most focused on is the results we’re able to garner.”
She reiterated on her Instagram page, “As your Prosecutor, I’m ready to deliver on our promise of justice and accountability, tackling the root causes of crime to make every neighborhood safer. This is just the beginning, and together, we’ll build a Jackson County where everyone can thrive without fear. Thank you for your trust and belief in our shared vision. Let’s keep moving forward! Now, the real work BEGINS!”
Johnson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science with a pre-law concentration from Columbia University.
