Gov. Parson promotes deputy to general counsel

Evan Rodriguez (Courtesy/Governor's Office)
Evan Rodriguez (Courtesy/Governor's Office)

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has named a new general counsel to serve in his office.

Evan Rodriguez, who had served as the governor's deputy general counsel since April 2021, was elevated to the role Tuesday. Rodriguez, 28, begins serving in the position today.

Parson was looking for a new general counsel after appointing his previous lawyer, Andrew Bailey, to the Attorney General's Office in November.

"We've all enjoyed having Evan on the team, and we're excited to elevate him to this position to serve as general counsel," Parson said in a statement. "Evan is a talented young attorney who has proven himself time and time again. From his expert legal mind, strong work ethic and passion for public service, we are confident in his ability to lead. Evan has become a true asset to our office, and we know he will continue to serve the people of Missouri with honor and respect -- just as he has done since the day he joined our team."

Rodriguez was a legislative analyst for the Missouri House before joining the governor's team. He also served as an assistant attorney general directly after law school and worked to uphold criminal prosecutions in state and federal courts.

Rodriguez earned an undergraduate philosophy degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and a juris doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law.

"I am humbled and grateful that Gov. Parson has entrusted me to serve as his general counsel," Rodriguez said in a statement. "The governor and Missourians deserve excellence. It is not only the goal but the expectation, and I intend to deliver. I am committed to continuing the high level of service this office represents and the people of Missouri demand."