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Five questions with Rep. TJ McKenna, D-Festus

1. What was your first campaign experience?

I had my kick-off event inside of a cave in my district, and Chris Koster showed up. It was pretty good. I had almost 200 people there, but that was really my first campaign experience outside of knocking on doors, which I did a little before that.

Rep. TJ McKenna, D-Festus
Rep. TJ McKenna, D-Festus

2. In what ways have you made a tangible effect on your constituents’ lives during the past legislative session?

I respond to all of my emails myself, so they know it’s coming from me. Plus, I make all of the phone calls back to my constituents myself. I didn’t ignore anybody. If there was someone with a problem I couldn’t solve, we found the appropriate person to do it. I feel like I did a pretty good job with my constituents. I only filed one bill, but I was more concerned on the constituent side rather than the legislative side just because we’re in the minority and don’t even know what bills will come up. Instead of getting flustered with that, I figured I’d work with my constituents.

3. Who from the opposing party do you most respect? And your own party?

On the other side, Warren Love.  He’s got his issues that are important to him, and we’ve debated on the floor to get a feel for each other. He’s not the kind of person who won’t talk to you because you don’t agree with him. We still talk every day like we never even debated against each other. A lot of people say it’s not personal but things really do get that way up there whether you like it or not, but he’s down to earth and he’s got his views but won’t throw them in your face. You can disagree and move on and still get along.

From my own party, can I say no one as a joke? No, but really, I’d say my cousin, [Sen.] Ryan [McKenna]. Without him I probably wouldn’t be here. He’s always been a great role model for me.

4. What was your dream job growing up?

I always wanted to play for the St. Louis Cardinals, but that never really panned out. I wanted to play centerfield.

5. What do you most enjoy about the interim?

The opportunity to travel and talk with constituents instead of over the phone or via email. I’m a face-to-face person and so it’s better for me to talk to people that way now that I can.