Some lawmakers concerned about Greitens ability to appoint new ethics commission members

Some Missouri lawmakers are concerned that Gov. Eric Greitens has the power to appoint new members to a state ethics panel that is currently reviewing a complaint against him.

The six-member Missouri Ethics Commission will lack a quorum after Thursday, when three members’ terms expire.

Greitens will be able to pick their replacements, who will be responsible for reviewing a pending ethics complaint against him. The governor could also leave the seats vacant, effectively blocking the commission from taking any action.

Sen. Box Dixon said the situation could create a “constitutional crisis.”

Sen. Rob Schaaf said the opportunity opens the door for the governor to pressure appointees to decide in his favor.