Here we will highlight the
key issues that were the basis of my campaign and that guide me in my service.
EDUCATION-Article IX of the Missouri
Constitution imposes a duty on the general assembly to establish and maintain
free public schools. Part and parcel of the obligation is the full funding of
the State Funding Formula. Not too many years ago funds were withheld from
public education proportionate with other State expenditures. This does not
seem consistent with the obligation as imposed by law. I will oppose any return
to these types of cutbacks and I will support full funding of the State Funding
Formula. We owe it to our children to provide a quality education.
MISSOURI AGRICULTURE-Even with the diversification of Missouri's economy,
agriculture is a key sector of our state's economy. I believe the State has a
role in promoting other uses of our agriculture products such as E-85 and
Biodiesel. I promise to help keep as one of our State Goals the promotion of
what Missouri
farmers and ranchers grow and produce.
ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT-Our
State government can have a positive role in encouraging the business growth
which will result in more good paying jobs for our citizens. I pledge to work
to make Missouri
a more desirable place to locate, grow or expand businesses that will create
the jobs that our citizens want.
OPPOSE
STATE TAX INCREASE-Many in government fail to recognize that the money in our purses
and billfolds belong to us and not the government. The engine of our economy
and the cause of our high standard of living is private initiative and
investment. We have a right to use our money as we see fit. The growth of State
revenue over the last twenty years is amazing. I pledge to oppose any new state
taxes without a vote of the people. The
working man and women need a break from the burden of taxes.
SUPPORT LIFE-The singular purpose of government is to protect the weak from the
strong. The most vulnerable persons are the unborn. I am morally committed to
support all efforts to protect the unborn, the elderly and the infirm.
TRADITIONAL
MARRIAGE-
Traditional marriage (one man and one woman) deserves the legal protections
given to it by Missouri
voters in 2004. I promise to work to protect the institution of marriage
from those who seek to abrogate that Missouri Constitutional
protection.
GUN RIGHTS-The founders of our Nation were wise in
establishing the right of self-protection and gun ownership in the Second
Amendment. We should never fear the private ownership and use of firearms by
law-abiding citizens. I will defend against any effort to infringe on the
Second Amendment to the United
State Constitution.
LAW ENFORCEMENT-My experience as Pettis
County
elected Prosecuting Attorney uniquely qualifies me to understand and work with
law enforcement across our state to see that the innocent are protected and the
guilty are punished. I promise to work with law enforcement to make our
citizens and streets safer.