Judge Jon Beetem agreed with Ellinger Bell’s arguments on behalf of the Republican State Committee and dismissed Democrat Stephen Webber's case seeking to remove Republican James Coyne from the August primary ballot in his bid for the 19th Senate District seat in Boone County. The Republican State Committee, represented by Marc Ellinger and Stephanie Bell, intervened in the case and asked the Judge to dismiss Webber’s case. Judge Beetem ruled Webber lacked standing and dismissed the case.

Ellinger Bell has significant experience in election law and is well-versed in handling election disputes. They have represented Republican candidates and committees across Missouri in state and federal matters. Here, the court quickly dismissed the case brought by the former chair of the Democrat party.
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The Republican State Committee, involved in ensuring fair and competitive elections, intervened in this case to ensure voters get the opportunity to decide who represents them. The Committee supports Republican candidates and works to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, defending against challenges like the one brought by Webber.

We are excited to announce that Lucas has joined Ellinger Bell as our 2024 Summer Clerk.

Lucas is currently a J.D. candidate at the University of Missouri School of Law, where he has demonstrated academic excellence and leadership as a representative for the Student Bar Association and a member of the Federalist Society. His dedication to the legal field is further showcased by his role as a Student Ambassador, helping to foster a supportive and engaging environment for his peers.

Lucas served as a Winter Judicial Intern to the Honorable Kimberly Shaw at the 13th Judicial Circuit Court in Boone County, where he gained valuable insights into the judicial process. His previous roles include Grassroots Engagement Director at Americans for Prosperity - KY and Senate Page at the United States Senate.

Before embarking on his legal education, Lucas earned a Master of Business Administration from Murray State University and Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in Legal Studies. Lucas's commitment to academic and extracurricular excellence was recognized through the Harry Lee Waterfield Scholarship and leadership roles in organizations such as the Student Government Association, Young Americans for Liberty, and College Republicans.

We are thrilled to welcome Lucas and look forward to the contributions he will make in advancing our mission of providing exceptional legal services. Please join us in welcoming Lucas to Ellinger Bell!

The Republican National Lawyers Association’s (RNLA) annual Policy Conference took place in Arlington, VA on Friday, May 17. Marc Ellinger, RNLA Chair and Partner at Ellinger Bell (right) moderated the annual Attorneys General Panel with (from L to R) Attorney General Steve Marshall representing the State of Alabama, Attorney General Brenna Bird from the State of Iowa, and Attorney General Alan Wilson of the State of South Carolina. As state Attorneys General are leading the fight against regulatory overreach, this hour-long panel explored the damage being done by the federal government to private property and civil rights. From crushing environmental regulations, to the redefining of men and women, and the restriction on 1st and 2nd Amendment rights, these Attorneys General are leading the fight across the United States.

Marc regularly advises clients on issues concerning lobbying, state and federal campaign finance, and ballot measures. Ellinger Bell clients include candidates, committees, political subdivisions, and other entities in all areas of election and political law. Our lawyers have represented state and federal candidates, ballot measure or issue committees, non-profit advocacy groups, as well as state and federal PACs. Marc is uniquely positioned to see election and political law issues from multiple perspectives and develop a comprehensive strategy to protect, preserve, and further client’s interests.
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As the principal national organization of Republican lawyers, the RNLA has a targeted set of missions, which include: advancing professionalism, ensuring open, fair and honest elections, promoting career opportunities, and working to defend and advocate for Republican ideals.

On May 15, 2024, Marc Ellinger presented arguments in the Western District Court of Appeals in Kansas City to stop the proliferation of illegal gambling devices across Missouri. Torch Electronics has emerged as a significant operator of such machines. Torch initially brought a lawsuit against the Missouri State Highway Patrol, aiming to prevent the seizure of illegal slot machines. The Missouri Gaming Association, represented by Ellinger Bell, intervened in that suit to stop Torch’s operations of illegal, unregulated slot machines across Missouri.
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The case underscores broader concerns about the regulation of gambling in Missouri. Ellinger Bell, representing the Missouri Gaming Association, seeks to ensure that only regulated gambling is allowed in the state. These efforts are motivated by the Association's commitment to responsible gaming practices, including preventing underage gambling and addressing problem gambling issues. In addition, the illegal activities of Torch directly and negatively impact the Association’s members. This case represents a key moment in the ongoing efforts to stop unregulated gambling activities in Missouri.

The Missouri Gaming Association (MGA) is the statewide trade association of the Missouri casino entertainment industry and its related professionals. The Missouri Gaming Association membership includes representatives of the 13 Missouri casino properties. Formed in 1993, the Missouri Gaming Association works to increase awareness of the economic benefits the casino industry brings to Missouri.

​Stephanie Bell emceed the Community Leader Breakfast sponsored by the Southern Boone Economic Development Council on Thursday, April 18th.

Bell shared remarks on what living in Ashland has meant to her personal and professional life. Attendees heard a Keynote from Michelle Hataway, the Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development, as well as updates from representatives from the Columbia Regional Airport, Boone County, the City of Ashland, Ranken Technical College, the Southern Boone School District. Attendees also had the opportunity to share business challenges and successes with one another and engage directly and with community and industry leaders.
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The annual Breakfast continues to be a valuable forum for partnership-building and dialogue about the region’s economic landscape.

​Marc Ellinger argued in the Missouri Supreme Court Wednesday, April 17th on the Laura Salamun vs. The Camden County Clerk. Listen to the argument here: https://www.courts.mo.gov/page.jsp?id=171834&year=2024...

​Last Friday, the Republican National Lawyers Association (RNLA) hosted an insightful webinar moderated by Marc Ellinger on the topic of noncitizen voting and the border crisis.

In this timely webinar, participants delved into the complex issues surrounding noncitizen voting and its implications for our electoral system. With the recent surge in migration at the border, understanding the intersection between immigration policies and voting rights had never been more crucial.

Esteemed guests joined the program, including an elections reporter from The Federalist and two distinguished representatives from America First Legal. Together, they provided expert analysis and insights into the legal, political, and practical aspects of noncitizen voting and the ongoing border crisis.

Marc Ellinger guided the discussion, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the topic and facilitating meaningful dialogue among the panelists. With his wealth of experience in law and public policy, Marc brought a unique perspective to the conversation, enriching our understanding of these critical issues.
The webinar provided valuable insights into one of the most pressing challenges facing our nation today. We appreciate everyone who attended and participated in the engaging and informative discussion.

Stephanie Bell, recently attended the Global Gaming Women (GGW) meet-up held in London. GGW sponsored the Game Changers Panel & Networking Event.

The event, renowned for its commitment to empowering women across the gaming sector, provided a platform for industry leaders like Bell to share insights and foster meaningful connections.

GGW captured the event in a video, available here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/global-gaming-women_ice24-ice2024-icelondon-activity-7161387796245405697-yyrc?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

​Marc Ellinger recently led pivotal discussions as a moderator at the first ever joint Masterclass between the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL) and the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR). The event, held on Monday, 5th February, brought together industry leaders and regulatory authorities to address critical issues shaping the gaming sector.

Marc Ellinger facilitated discussions on the fundamentals of good regulation and the importance of regulatory collaboration. Panelists, Andrew Rhodes, Chair of the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, Tim Richards EVP and Chief Strategy Officer at Everi Holdings, Inc., and Tracey Elkerton, Chief Compliance Officer for Aristocrat Leisure Limited, explored topics such as consumer protection, market integrity, and future-proofing regulation amidst technological advancements.
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Marc Ellinger's moderation skills, experience and knowledge of gaming law enriched the dialogue, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in substantive discussions, share best practices, and explore collaborative approaches towards regulatory excellence and operational efficiency. The joint IMGL/IAGR Masterclass with Marc Ellinger as moderator, underscored the industry's commitment to navigating challenges and fostering innovation. By facilitating meaningful discussions and fostering collaboration, Ellinger and the panelists paved the way for a more resilient and sustainable gaming industry.