Adam Schnelting

Adam Schnelting is a Republican politician currently serving as a member of the Missouri State Senate, representing the 23rd district. He has a background in both legislative and military service, having previously held a position in the Missouri House of Representatives. Schnelting is known for his involvement in various political and community organizations, as well as for his legislative initiatives focused on issues such as education, public safety, and reproductive rights.

Early life and career

Born in 1985, Adam Schnelting is a seventh-generation resident of Missouri, with his family having settled in America in 1628. This long-standing connection to the state is a point of pride for him, and he is a member of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Schnelting pursued higher education, earning a degree in Christian Ministry from Oklahoma Wesleyan University, followed by a baccalaureate degree from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

In addition to his political career, Schnelting is a licensed realtor and has experience as a minister and church planter. His commitment to service extends to his military career; he currently serves as a combat engineer in the Missouri Army National Guard. Schnelting has also been involved with the Missouri State Defense Force and the State Guard Association of the United States. His civic engagement includes active participation in organizations such as the National Rifle Association of America, Missouri Right to Life, and the American Center for Law and Justice.

Before entering elected office, Schnelting worked as a legislative assistant in the Missouri House of Representatives. His initial foray into electoral politics came in 2016 when he ran in the Republican primary for the 65th district but was defeated. Following the term limit of Republican incumbent Kathie Conway in 2018, Schnelting successfully ran for the 104th district in the Missouri House, winning the primary unopposed and subsequently defeating his Democratic opponent in the general election.

Legislative service

Schnelting's legislative career began in the Missouri House of Representatives, where he served the 104th district before redistricting moved him to the 69th district. He was first elected to the House in November 2018 and continued to serve after winning re-election in 2020 against Democratic candidate Jessica DeVoto. In the 2022 election, Schnelting faced DeVoto again, this time in the newly drawn 69th district, and managed to secure a larger victory than in the previous election.

In 2024, Schnelting transitioned to the Missouri State Senate, winning the Republican primary for the 23rd district against three challengers. He subsequently faced Democrat Matt Williams in the general election, where he won with a margin of 55% to 45%. Throughout his time in the legislature, Schnelting has been an active member of the Missouri Freedom Caucus, which aligns with his conservative political stance.

Schnelting has been involved in various legislative initiatives, including introducing HJR116, an amendment to the Missouri state constitution that established the Missouri Department of the National Guard. This amendment was approved by voters in the 2022 general election, marking a significant change in the administrative structure of the state's National Guard.

He is also known for his role in authoring and passing Missouri's abortion ban, which was designed as a "trigger law" to take effect if the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Following the court's decision in June 2022, the state ban was enacted. Schnelting has faced criticism for some of his legislative proposals, particularly those concerning oversight of unlicensed schools. He has defended his initiatives by asserting that they aim to address issues such as the foster care crisis in Missouri while enhancing oversight through the establishment of a new "Child Protection Board."

In addition to his work on education and reproductive rights, Schnelting has pursued legislation to allow concealed carry on public transit, which has included provisions for concealed carry in religious institutions. Although his 2024 bill made it through committee, it was ultimately tabled following a tragic shooting incident in Kansas City.

Policy focus and district

As a legislator, Schnelting has concentrated on several key policy areas that reflect his Republican values. His work on education has included both support for oversight measures and initiatives aimed at improving child welfare. His involvement with the Missouri Freedom Caucus indicates a commitment to conservative principles, particularly in relation to government oversight and individual rights.

Schnelting's district, the 23rd, includes a diverse constituency in Missouri, and his legislative priorities are shaped by the needs and concerns of his constituents. He has been active in addressing issues related to public safety, education, and reproductive rights, often aligning his legislative efforts with the broader goals of the Republican Party in Missouri.

In addition to his committee assignments, which include chairing the Special Committee on Homeland Security and serving on committees related to emerging issues and insurance policy, Schnelting's legislative actions reflect a proactive approach to governance. His focus on creating and amending laws that impact the lives of Missouri residents demonstrates his engagement with the legislative process and his commitment to representing the interests of his district.

Outside of his political career, Schnelting resides in St. Charles with his wife, Christine, and their children, Catherine and George. His family life and community involvement further underscore his connection to the state of Missouri and its residents, as he continues to navigate the complexities of state governance while advocating for policies that align with his values and the needs of his constituents.