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Basye announces bid for floor leader, says he ‘wants to give back’

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Another lawmaker has thrown his hat into the race for House Floor Leader: Rep. Chuck Basye.

The junior Republican said he wants to give back to his caucus and views himself as a person who would be very useful in the position.

“I think I can be productive in many ways. … I think I could be effective working out difficulties, like we have going on right now is a good example,” Basye told the Missouri Times. “The floor leader serves multiple functions: Mainly managing bills on the floor and being a voice for the caucus.”

He pointed to his life experience — from military service to the private sector to the Federal Aviation Administration to his small farm — as what sets him apart from others.

In his time in the House, Basye has pushed for bills that would expand those eligible for the Missouri Returning Heroes Act, have insurance companies cover therapy treatments for children with disabilities, and fund veterans homes through a bond.

Former Reps. Todd Richardson and Mike Cierpiot, as well as current Rep. Rob Vescovo have all served as floor leader while Basye has been in the body. Basye noted they all had their own style and made the position their own.

“I think all did a very well, effective job,” said Basye. “I don’t think I can point to one that I would like to emulate more than another.”

He noted the other lawmakers also running for the floor leader position make up a “fine crop,” and he has tremendous respect for them. The floor leader vote will be held after the 2020 election.

“I look forward to working hard to get the trust of my caucus,” Basye said.