A Missouri state representative waging a quixotic run for House Speaker may have been procuring state grants for a foundation that employs him – raising questions about whether some of those funds are flowing into his own pockets as an unregistered lobbyist.

Traditionally the majority party selects the speaker well before the start of a legislative session – and, in this case, Missouri House Republicans chose Rep. Jon Patterson, R-Lee’s Summit.

But Rep. Justin Sparks, R-Wildwood, has nonetheless mounted an insurgent campaign to become speaker when the session begins Jan. 8.

But while Sparks’ campaign website sparksformissouri.com says, “Politicians have become addicted to your tax dollars” – and his supporters see him as taking on the “Jefferson City Swamp” – The Heartlander has obtained documents indicating Sparks has sought and obtained millions in grants from the state.

An email from Sparks to House Budget Committee legislative director Joe Engler seeks help in procuring $6 million, presumably for the National Law Enforcement Foundation, which Sparks has listed as an employer.

“I am asking for six million to be privately matched for a new childcare program for St. Louis County Police employees,” Sparks’ email to Engler reads. “These funds will provide for the purchase of an existing structure/facility and the first three years of service.

“The intent is for this to serve as a pilot program for statewide distribution after successful implementation. I know how much you have on your plate and I appreciate you helping me.”

The email is dated Feb. 8, 2023. Sparks was elected to the District 110 House seat in 2022, and re-elected last month.

Sparks earlier had filed for bankruptcy. A 2009 court document indicates that John V. LaBarge, Jr., then the Standing Chapter 13 Trustee for the Eastern District of Missouri, objected to a repayment plan in which he alleged the schedule understated Sparks’ annual income.