Power Profile: Representative Michael Johnson
Representative Michael Johnson represents the 23rd District in the Missouri House of Representatives.
For Rep. Michael Johnson, D-Kansas City, the opportunity to serve his home district in Jackson County was, and continues to be, an incredible honor. Though Johnson has represented the 23rd District in the Missouri House of Representatives since his election in 2020, he has always been deeply rooted in that community, a fact that drives his legislative efforts. Born and raised in Kansas City, Johnson's dedication to his community is evident in every aspect of his work, and he speaks with pride about the people and places that shaped him.
"I love it. You know, I love the state of Missouri. I am very, very passionate about my district and I'm very involved in my district," he said. "I’d do this without compensation, without recognition, because it’s from the heart."
Before entering the political arena, Johnson served in the U.S. Army, where he became an expert infantryman specializing in urban warfare. This military discipline and dedication to service are qualities he has carried into his civilian life, particularly in his role as a legislator.
In the Missouri House, Johnson has taken on significant roles, notably serving as vice chair of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus since 2023. His legislative work is broad, spanning multiple committees, including Economic Development, Insurance Policy, Veterans and several special committees focused on innovation and technology.
One of Johnson's most significant legislative achievements is his work on expanding broadband access throughout Missouri, a project he describes as his "baby." He recalled a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 pandemic when he saw students huddled on the steps of a high school in the cold, trying to access Wi-Fi for their online classes.
"That hurt me because I know how it felt to be in the cold," he said. “That really just pulled on my heartstrings."
This experience helped fuel his determination to bridge the digital divide in Missouri. During the 2024 legislative session, he worked with his colleagues in the General Assembly to secure $1.5 billion in broadband investments to help the state's rural and underserved areas. Through the state budget, Johnson helped to ensure all Missourians, regardless of where they live, have access to the internet — a necessity in today's world for education, telehealth and staying connected with loved ones.
Beyond his legislative work, Johnson has a clear vision for the future of his district. His long-term goal is to establish a skilled-trade center that would serve as a hub for youth in his district, bringing together various vocational training programs under one roof.
"I would like to create a skilled-trade center large enough to congregate all the youth within my district," Johnson said, adding that by housing different programs in the same facility, any transportation issues can be easily resolved.
Johnson described a place where students can learn essential skills, develop their punctuality and attentiveness and ultimately bridge the gap between vocational training and traditional education.
"It’s not just the transportation barrier, but it’s a matter of teaching them skills that they can use immediately," he said.
Johnson has also been a strong advocate for renewable energy, showcasing his commitment to the state’s broader infrastructure needs, particularly in the realm of energy. He has pushed for more electric vehicle charging stations across the state, especially in rural areas, noting the worry over being able to find such a station can hinder purchases.
"We’re behind," he said. "There’s that anxiety of driving an electric car and wondering where the next charging station is."
Outside of politics, Johnson runs his own insurance business, the Johnson Hazley Agency LLC, and enjoys spending time with his family. As a father of three and a grandfather, he values the moments he can gather his children together, whether they are watching documentaries or simply enjoying each other's company.
His commitment to his family mirrors his dedication to his district — both are guided by a deep sense of responsibility and love.
"The work that I do for the state of Missouri is just strictly out of love," Johnson said, reflecting on his commitment to both his family and his district.
For more information on Rep. Johnson, please visit his official webpage at house.mo.gov.