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10 Questions with: Vicki Englund (D), HD94

Democratic Rep. Vicki Englund is in a close race against Republican challenger Cloria Brown. Both of the candidates have represented their district, and as part of our ongoing election coverage, we sat down with both of them to ask them 10 Questions.

The Missouri Times: You’re in an extremely close race. Does a race this close come down to raising/spending more than your opponent?

 Sure, fundraising is important so you can get your message out to the voters, but it takes more than just that.  You have to reach out to voters at the doors, talk to them, find out what is on their minds, not just drop a flyer off at their door.

TMT: What makes you the most qualified candidate to represent your district in the House?

 I have a proven track record of doing what I think is best for the 94th District, regardless of which party is sponsoring the legislation.  It takes courage to make independent decisions even though you know not everyone is going to be happy with you.

Rep. Vicki Englund
Rep. Vicki Englund

TMT: You’ve knocked a lot of doors. What’s the issue you’re hearing about most from the voters?

 Voters in the 94th District are praying for Ferguson.  They understand how important a strong community is during this time of healing.  They are also concerned about jobs and excessive health care costs.  In addition, the 94th District understands that public education and the school transfer issue must be addressed and are frustrated that we cannot come to consensus in Jefferson City.

TMT: Where are the areas you and your opponent disagree that you think the voters should know about?

My opponent does not have the ability to act independently from her party.  I am much more vocal on the House Floor and speak passionately about issues about which I care deeply, such as education and democracy.  I have passed my own legislation, from extending unemployment benefits in 2009 to veteran’s legislation in 2013.  I also serve on the Lindbergh School Board, which is the highest achieving school district in the state and has been for the last five years.  That dual perspective allows me to focus on local control of school districts and a direct understanding of how schools are funded.

TMT: What can we expect from your campaign between now and Election Day?

Doorknocking is our number one focus.  We will also reach voters with advertising in various forms of media.

TMT: What’s the first piece of legislation you plan to file if you’re re-elected?

The school transfer issue is still a huge concern of mine.  Without proper student-teacher ratios, I am afraid we will not be able to ensure quality public education for all children.

TMT: How do you plan on being an effective legislator as a member of a minority party?

I plan to continue my work in consensus-building and dialogue with the majority party.  Screaming at each other is not nearly as effective as talking with each other.

TMT: What are some areas of public policy that you believe have a bipartisan consensus?

I believe when it comes to protecting our children from internet predators and taking care of the senior citizens in our state, we can come to bipartisan consensus.

TMT: What’s is different in this year’s campaign from campaigns you’ve been involved in in the past?

This year is a historic year when there are not many statewide candidates on the ticket.  It will be a low turnout year and our Get Out The Vote efforts will be vital.

TMT: What’s the single most important legislative issue you think you’ll have to deal with in the coming year?

I hope it is Medicaid Expansion.  We need to start putting people before politics in Jefferson City.