Paula Carter

Politician —

PAULA J. CARTER, a St. Louis native, was called “the most powerful woman Democrat in the city,” by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. She began her political career when she helped James “Pal” Troupe win a race for fifth ward committeeman. In 1976, she served as precinct captain for Senator J.B. Banks, and he became a long-time mentor and ally.

In 1984, Carter secured her first elected office as 27th ward Democratic committeewoman, which she held until her death. She was first elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 1986 and was re-elected for six additional terms.

Carter became known as tenacious and for her willingness to fight for the disadvantaged. She fought to provide better health care for Missouri citizens, especially poor women. The Legislative Black Caucus Foundation created the Paula J. Carter Chairman’s Award to honor adults who work with youth.

In 1999, Carter won a special election to replace Senator “Jett” Banks, who resigned from the Senate. Voters re-elected her to a full term in November 2000. Carter became very ill with cancer and died Nov. 5, 2001.