2013 Missouri Legislative Session - Capitol Report V

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” – Nelson Mandela

On this day in 1990 we saw the release of Nelson Mandela from a long 27 year imprisonment. This pivotal moment in history underscored the end of apartheid – the institutionalization of racism in government – within South Africa. Mandela went on to be elected President of South Africa in 1994 in South Africa’s first truly democratic election in modern times. We celebrate not only Mandela’s achievements but also the achievements of mankind. Every day we work toward ensuring democracy remains alive and well in governments the world over.

Democracy was truly in action this weekend in Van Buren, Missouri where members of the Republican Party gathered to elect their nominee to replace outgoing Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson of the 8th Congressional District. The district comprises most of Southeastern Missouri, stretching from the furthest corner of the Bootheel, west to Taney County, north to Rolla, and back east to Farmington, Perryville, and Cape Girardeau. After six rounds of balloting, Representative Jason Smith (R-Salem) emerged the nominee. In my time serving with my very good and close friend, I have known Rep. Smith to be a champion of the conservative cause. His selection was a reaffirmation of the policies, philosophy and legislative priorities that Jason and I have pursued for more than six years together. Missourians support our efforts and have now chosen Jason to serve them in a larger, broader role. I look forward to continuing to working with Rep. Smith in the coming days and know we send him off with Missouri’s values to Washington – a place where a little Missouri common sense will do some good.

As always, thank you for taking the time to keep yourself apprised of the happenings in your state government. If my office can ever be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Governor’s Proposal Just Makes Things Worse

I glanced at the U.S. Debt Clock on Tuesday afternoon. If each taxpayer in the
country had to make a one-time payment to collectively pay off the federal
debt, that amount would be $146,080. So here is my question: “Do you have over a hundred thousand dollars that you and your family do not need?” Odds are you do not. Click here to read more.

Better Solutions

One of the hottest topics so far this session has been and will continue to be Healthcare Reform. We will not ignore the needs of our less-fortunate citizens and will be working diligently to offer and pass the best solutions for Missouri. One such plan to assist Missouri’s most vulnerable citizens was passed in the House this week with nearly unanimous bipartisan support. Click here to read more.

Up From the Ashes

On the rather ordinary Sunday evening of February 5, 1911, the dome of the Missouri Capitol was struck by lightning a third and final time. The capitol had survived direct hits in 1901 and 1904 but it was the last strike in 1911 that proved to be more than the people’s Capitol could withstand. Click here to read more.

This Week’s Vlog NEW!!

This week, I travelled to the Samaritan Center in Jefferson City, a place that truly knows how to serve the needy. I met with their long time Executive Director, Marilyn Defeo, a delightful woman and leader in our community who was truly appreciative of the good work done this week by your Missouri House. At Samaritan, Missourians in need can find food, clothing, and even health and dental care. The private sector can be a blessing like none other in the modern era – and your Republican-led legislature recognizes it in this week’s video log.