Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder is hardly a political newcomer, so we were surprised when he made a remark destined to attract public scorn.
Kinder - who served 12 years as a Republican state senator before being elected lieutenant governor in 2004 - has asked lawmakers to give him a daily expense allowance to offset his "gradual impoverishment." Impoverishment for Kinder is an $86,000 annual salary.
Here is a sampling of reactions posted on social media sites.
• "What an affront to truly impoverished people across the state and country, people who work two, three and four jobs to keep their family in one small house, not one job for multiple houses. If he's so impoverished, maybe we should start sending him Buddy Packs on the weekend."
• "What a joke. I hope this guy is out of office sooner rather than later. I also hope the legislators laughed in his face at his request."
• "As a fellow state employee, I would also love a daily allowance. Hopefully he can hook me up as well."
The temerity of Kinder's request is heightened by a state budget proposal expected to leave rank-and-file state employees relegated to lowest paid among their peers in the 50 states.
More than a decade ago, Kinder sought and won a job with offices in Jefferson City. He continues to maintain two homes - one here and one in his hometown of Cape Giradeau. That's his choice, but the expense also is his responsibility.
Lawmakers - who earn $36,000 annually for what ostensibly is a part-time job - earn a daily expense allowance, called a per diem, to cover the costs of room and board when they are in Jefferson City.
Arguing for a per diem, Kinder said: "I am situated exactly as members of the Legislature are, in living in a district community and maintaining some kind of residence when I'm here."
Incorrect.
His reference to a "district community" is mystifying. Lieutenant governor is a statewide position. He is elected by voters statewide to represent all Missourians. His "district" is the entire state.
He is employed full time, unlike part-time lawmakers.
The only merit in his claim is that his duties - largely ceremonial - include presiding over the state Senate. But that is hardly a compelling argument.
Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Kurt Schaefer, R-Columbia, said senators will consider Kinder's request. If the GOP legislative majority grants a per diem to the "impoverished" Republican statewide official, they invite public ridicule and wrath.
And they will deserve it in ample measure.