ST. LOUIS — One of FOX 2’s longest-serving employees just announced his upcoming retirement. After 45 years, Elliott Davis will be retiring on August 2. He expresses gratitude for being able to assist numerous individuals through his journalism career. Elliott reflects on his enjoyable career journey but now looks forward to spending quality time with his daughter and granddaughter.
“I truly believe that God has guided me on a path to help those in need, and with His support, I was able to navigate this 45-year journey. Starting out as a young individual from the housing projects neighborhood, I ended up having interviews with governors, Presidents, and other prominent officials,” Davis shares on Facebook. “I also want to extend my gratitude to you, the viewers, for supporting our work over these decades. Your support has been instrumental in my sustained presence. ‘You Paid For It’ wouldn’t have had the impact it did without you.”
Investigative reporter Elliott Davis is renowned for his influential “You Paid For It” segments that shed light on government waste. He has held various officials accountable, from mayors to presidents, and has initiated significant legislative changes. His dedication to addressing social issues extends beyond the screen, as he shines a light on the plight of the homeless.
Davis has received numerous accolades for his investigative work, including a regional Murrow Award for his coverage on homelessness, multiple Emmy Awards, and acknowledgments from journalism and law enforcement entities. He played a key role in the “Close the Workhouse” movement, which began with his viral Facebook post showcasing the substandard conditions faced by inmates without adequate cooling. This advocacy has prompted ongoing efforts to enhance conditions in St. Louis prisons.
Davis’s investigations have instigated a range of reforms, from revamping vehicle emissions testing in Missouri to enacting towing legislation in Illinois, and enhancing educational opportunities by dissolving underperforming school districts. His work has also resulted in the renovation of public housing complexes and the removal of corrupt officials from office.
A St. Louis native, Davis attended Vashon High School before earning a bachelor’s degree in political science from Cornell University. His unwavering commitment to public accountability and his distinctive on-air presence have solidified his position as a trusted figure in St. Louis journalism.
Throughout the next month, we will be honoring Elliott by highlighting some of his career milestones. These tributes will be showcased on air and online.
