Values
Education
As a teacher in Canton, I believe it is essential for every Missourian to have the opportunity for a quality education. Through ensuring access to technology and excellent teachers in classrooms, we can give children the necessary tools for success in the future. We need to keep class sizes small and make sure money allocated for education actually makes in into the classroom. Higher education is also the key to success in the workplace, and I will work to lower college tuition costs for Missouri families.
Health Insurance
I believe every Missourian deserves access to quality, affordable health care. Unfortunately, this is not the case today. Insurance premiums continue to go up year after year, businesses are struggling to provide health care to their employees, seniors are paying too much for their prescription drugs and parents are choosing between health care for their children and themselves. Our medical research facilities aren't getting the resources they need to move forward. I will make it a priority to fix our broken health care system including maximizing access to federal funds to limit the burden on Missouri's budget. Every Missourian should have access to quality health care.
Jobs and the Economy
In northeast Missouri I have seen how these tough economic times call for an increased focus on improving the state’s economy and helping Missourians find jobs. A strong commitment to economic development and job-training programs is the best way to give the Missouri economy the foundation it needs to continue to grow, attracting high quality jobs for Missourians. We should provide support to the small businesses that create the framework of Missouri’s economy.
Fiscally Responsible
During these tough economic times, we have to ensure that government can continue to serve the people more efficiently and with a tighter budget. Finding ways to cut costs, streamline government, and improve services should be our main objectives. It all starts with implementing more focus and accountability into all areas of state government to ensure that proper checks iand balances are in place.
Gun Owner’s Rights
I believe in an individual’s right to own and possess firearms. Missourians have a right to own guns, and that right is clearly granted to us by the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. I intend to work to protect the rights of Missouri gun owners.
