Energy, health costs top issues for voters, Emerson says

Hardy Billington of Poplar Bluff, Mo., gave Rep. Jo Ann Emerson a copy of his book, "The Election by Faith In '04," at Emerson's yearly picnic at the Arena Building in Cape Girardeau on Saturday. About 400 people attended the event. (Chris Smith) [Click to enlarge]

Constituents in the 8th Congressional District have two major concerns, Rep. Jo Ann Emerson said Saturday -- energy costs and health-care costs.

Emerson said at her 11th annual picnic Saturday she gained greater understanding of those concerns after a tour last week that stopped at farms in Cape Girardeau, Perry and Stoddard counties and the floodwall in Cape Girardeau.

About 400 people attended the event at the Arena Building Saturday night.

The energy crisis has particular concern for Southeast Missouri, she said, because of the impact it has on agriculture and small businesses who rely on getting goods to market.

The contribution of agriculture and the future it holds with ethanol and biodiesel fuel are a key to national security, Emerson said.

"From our fields we can grow fuel. As soon as we can become independent, we can be more secure," she said.

As to health-care costs, Emerson is the sponsor of legislation that demands Medicare negotiate the prices of prescriptions on behalf of the program's 40 million beneficiaries.

Other issues, including roads, bridges and boat docks, varied according to the locale.

For example, during her tour of the floodwall, many people came to voice concerns over sediment accumulation at Red Star Public Fishing Access Point boat ramp north of the wall. Some believe the problem could eventually threaten the entire Missouri bank. Some boaters would like to see the river dredged.

"I will do everything I can possibly do to be creative and get the Army Corps of Engineers to do a job not navigationally related," she told the crowd Saturday.

Also in attendance were Sen. Jim Talent, Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, Rep. Nathan Cooper, soon to be State Auditor Sandra Thomas and Sen. John Thune of South Dakota.

Thune entered the political arena in 1996 and said, "Jo Ann and I cut teeth together." He said he held Emerson and Talent in high esteem, explaining to the crowd that "you have two of the finest people supporting you."

cpagano@semissourian.com

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