St. Louis lawmaker wants Guard leader scrutinized

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- A St. Louis lawmaker is urging the governor-elect to consider replacing the adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard after accusations the commander has discriminated against women and blacks.

Two federal complaints have been filed that accuse Maj. Gen. King Sidwell and his chief of staff of discrimination. Thirteen black soldiers made similar charges in a letter to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Democratic House member Jamilah Nasheed, of St. Louis, told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch she wants Gov.-elect Jay Nixon to consider replacing Sidwell, who has reapplied for the job.

Nixon, a Democrat, was noncommittal about the controversy but said he expects the National Guard is "one area we would make some changes."

Sidwell denies discriminating against anyone. He said one complaint could have been filed as retaliation for a separate promotion decision.

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Information from: St. Louis Post-Dispatch, http://www.stltoday.com