A common saying at the state Capitol is that “The Governor proposes; the legislature disposes.” Legislators from both sides of the aisle are growing more publicly disenchanted with Governor Nixon’s follow-up on his proposals.

To hear Republicans talk, Governor Nixon doesn’t get involved in developing legislation until lawmakers have passed a bill–and then he criticizes their work and vetoes the bill. Senate leader Tom Dempsey of St. Charles, a Republican, minces no words…

AUDIO: Dempsey

Even Nixon’s fellow Democrats sometimes struggle to defend his relations with the legislature. Senator Scott Sifton is from St.Louis.

AUDIO: Sifton

But Nixon had few defenders on bills reinstating spending bills had vetoed. Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal called Nixon a “coward” for his handling of the Ferguson disturbances. And the senior member of the legislature, Democratic Representative Chris Kelly of Columbia, said Nixon’s only relationships are with slaves or enemies. Senator Paul LeVota of Independence has heard those comments.

AUDIO: Levota

But he wouldn’t say which half.