1. Why do you want this position and what are your qualifications?

I want a representative that will hear and act on the concerns of all of the constituents in our district, so to ensure that, I decided to throw my hat in the ring. I studied at Crowder College’s remote campus in Cassville then finished my degree at Missouri Southern State University in Joplin. For eleven years I have worked for the leading financial software & technology company in Monett.

2. If elected, what are your three highest priorities and why?

Expanding Medicaid to ensure healthcare access for all Missourians. 

I believe Missouri taxpayers should expect accountability and transparency in state spending, and that public dollars should remain in public schools that educate all students. I oppose the voucher program that takes money from public schools and puts them in private/charter schools. 

The Viney Creek Public Access and Campsite near Golden MO has been closed for nearly a decade. The land belongs to the Army Corps of Engineers but there is room in the state budget to re-open it to the public once more. This is the campground I remember camping there as a child and wish it to be available for future generations. My father taught me to tie a fishing lure off the shoreline of Viney Creek.

3. What is the single biggest issue in Barry County you believe could be addressed in the state legislature?

Wage Stagnation, State lawmakers made a mistake eliminating the annual minimum wage adjustments that had been in place and repealed paid sick leave that Missourians had voted into law, removing opportunities for stability in tough times. When we have to pay more out-of-pocket for needs like food and healthcare, it makes it harder for families to thrive.

4. What changes, if any, are needed in Missouri’s criminal justice system?

I oppose the death penalty. Capital punishment violates the constitutional ban against cruel and unusual punishment and the guarantees of due process of law and of equal protection under the law. 

Second, the tendency for plea bargains over trial (95% of cases) The pervasiveness of plea bargains brings with it many troubling consequences. This can, and often does, lead to defendants pleading guilty to crimes for which they are not culpable or accepting lengthier sentences than they otherwise would have received. Jury duty is a core to democracy similar to voting, a right and an obligation of citizenship.

5. What is your position on the state’s current funding for public schools, and what changes would you make, if any?

The legislature has failed to meet the state’s obligation to fund our public schools. And I am disappointed that the State Board of Education has chosen not to recommend fully funding Missouri’s school foundation formula.  I’ll vote NO on a budget bill that fails to provide the funding our schools requested.