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WHY AM I RUNNING FOR THE STATE LEGISLATURE?
You deserve an answer to that question before I deserve your vote. The short answer? I have the knowledge, the values, and the experience to make a difference for you in Jefferson City.
Whatever you think of term limits, one impact is certain. They have wiped out the institutional memory in the House of Representatives. Left are many newly elected Representatives who lack the deliberative skills, the knowledge, and the civility to move Missouri forward.
Let’s talk about what we need our state government to do. It’s easy to be negative – to score political points. But let’s remember that we – we the people – create government to do what we cannot do as individuals.
We won’t agree on all the details – but I am running for the Legislature because I want to put an end to the legislative games of “Trivial Pursuit” and “gotcha politics.” I’ll roll up my sleeves and get to work on the big issues facing state government:
Issues Like Education …
From pre-school through graduate school, education is our future. It affects our economy, our communities, and our families. Short-changing education hurts us all. It’s time for Missouri to begin treating education as an investment in our future, not as an expense to be avoided.
Issues Like Our Infrastructure …
Our state must face its infrastructure needs – visible needs like roads, bridges, railroads, and airports, and invisible needs like power, water lines, sewers and information technology. This investment is essential to sustain our economy, to create and retain jobs, and to develop a modern marketplace. We neglect the foundation of our 21st century way-of-life at our peril.
Issues Like Healthcare For All …
Universal healthcare is no easy task. It will take incremental steps, but it must be done. We must start by finding ways to include ALL children. We must provide access to those least able to care for themselves – in ways that are financially sustainable, that encourage self-sufficiency, and that maximize workforce participation. Heathcare is a necessity for our modern society, not an option.
Issues Like the Environment …
Missouri is a beautiful state. Its natural resources and landscapes are here for all to enjoy — residents and tourists alike. As our population and economy grow, we must protect the beauty and quality of our surroundings. It’s not a trade-off. Our forests, lakes, streams, and air quality must never be taken for granted nor sold to the highest bidder. It’s smart environmentally, it’s smart economically, and it’s the right thing to do.
You’re likely to hear that response — it’s the right thing to do — a lot from me when I serve as your Legislator. That’s my moral compass. That’s how I look at my life. That’s how I make decisions.
So why am I running for state representative? Because I want to restore an ethical and civil process to the Missouri House. I have the experience on which to draw, the vision on which to build, and the wisdom to meld the two in crafting solutions to the major problems we face in Boone County and the state.
Over the next several months, I’ll be knocking on your door. Tell me what you think. Give me your priorities. Your ideas are the fuel for this campaign.
Keep the porch light on — I’ll be knocking.
Chris Kelly... Your Voice in Jefferson City
Paid for by Friends of Chris Kelly — Bill Fairman, Treasurer