Missouri Judge Rules KKK-Linked Candidate Can Stay on GOP Primary Ballot

Darrell Leon McClanahan III's inclusion in the gubernatorial race has ignited debates within the Missouri Republican Party.

A Missouri judge ruled Darrell Leon McClanahan III can remain on the Republican primary ballot for governor.
The Missouri GOP attempted to remove McClanahan due to his alleged ties to the Ku Klux Klan and extremist history.
McClanahan has denied being a KKK member but admitted to receiving an honorary membership and participating in a cross lighting ceremony.
The judge's decision emphasized that political parties cannot retroactively reject candidates after accepting their filing fees.
McClanahan's candidacy has sparked controversy within the Missouri Republican Party as it seeks to maintain control of the governor's office.