What body has ultimate authority over the Missouri state government?

The body that has ultimate authority over the Missouri state government is the Missouri General Assembly. This legislative body, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, holds the power to create, amend, and repeal laws, as well as to allocate state funds and approve budgets. The General Assembly's authority reflects the principles of representative democracy, where elected officials represent the people of Missouri and their interests in governance.

While the other choices play significant roles in the state's governance, they do not possess the same level of overall authority as the General Assembly. The Missouri Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in Missouri and is responsible for interpreting the laws but does not create them. The Governor's Cabinet consists of appointed officials who assist the governor in managing state agencies and implementing laws but operates under the authority granted by the legislature. The Missouri Department of State is tasked with various administrative and regulatory functions but lacks legislative power. Therefore, the General Assembly's legislative authority, as established in the state constitution, solidifies its role as the ultimate governing authority in Missouri.