Show-Me State Times

Catherine L. Hanaway was sworn in as Missouri’s 45th Attorney General during a private ceremony at the Missouri Supreme Court Building on September 8, 2025. The oath of office was administered by Judge Ginger K. Gooch, a justice on the Supreme Court of Missouri and Hanaway's former law partner. Hanaway took her oath on her son John’s Bible.

“It is an honor and privilege to serve as Missouri’s 45th Attorney General,” said Attorney General Hanaway. “I view this position as a job to fight crime, protect Missouri families, and defend the freedoms guaranteed in our Constitution. My commitment is to serve Missourians by enforcing the law as written and upholding the rule of law. There is much to do, and I am ready to begin."

Hanaway has built her career around protecting Missouri families, with experience as a trial lawyer and public servant. She stated that her agenda includes fighting crime, protecting consumers, ensuring safeguards for vulnerable populations against fraud and abuse, and defending both the U.S. and Missouri Constitutions. She has pledged to pursue justice for victims of violence, address corruption, and oppose schemes threatening Missourians’ livelihoods.

Previously, Hanaway served in the Missouri House of Representatives where she became the first woman elected Speaker of the House. In that role, she worked on legislation related to public safety, Second Amendment rights, and government accountability.

Hanaway also served as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri where she supervised more than 4,000 criminal and civil cases with over 100 attorneys and investigators under her direction.

Before assuming office as attorney general, Hanaway led Husch Blackwell LLP—a national law firm based in Kansas City—as its first female chair.

She holds degrees from Creighton University (Bachelor of Arts) and The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law (Juris Doctor). Hanaway lives in St. Louis with her husband Chris and their two children.

Photos from the swearing-in ceremony are available online.