Two more attorneys line up for retiring Boone County judge’s seat

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Two Columbia-based attorneys are preparing to run for a Boone County judge set in 2026.

Bill Ellis and James Egan have both announced campaigns for the Division 9 associate circuit judgeship in Boone County. Ellis plans to run as a Democrat and Egan plans to campaign as a Republican.

The two are seeking to replace Judge Tracy Gonzalez, who announced her upcoming retirement in September.

Ellis has worked as a court-appointed attorney for youth in the juvenile justice system. He also worked as counsel for the Department of Revenue handling cases of driver's license suspensions and revocations.

"“I am running for Associate Circuit Judge because I believe everyone – including children and families – deserves a fair opportunity, compassion, and a justice system that works for them and can provide that better path forward,” Ellis said in a news release.

Egan has worked at the Missouri State Public Defender's office for 22 years. He has moved throughout the office, including the appellate division and most recently the Central Capital Office, handling death penalty matters.

"As a judge, I’ll bring a steady temperament and deep respect for the rule of law,” Egan said in a news release on Wednesday. "I’ve seen how mental health and addiction intersect with the justice system. Accountability and effective treatment can, and should, coexist, with community safety and victims’ rights front and center."

Former Boone County assistant prosecutor Spencer Smith earlier announced his run for the Division 9 seat after Gonzalez announced her retirement. Current elected prosecutor Roger Johnson said he planned to run for Division 11 associate judgeship to replace Judge Jayne Pearman, who is not seeking another term.