147th Missouri House district candidate Gary L. Gaines

__Name:__ Gary L. Gaines

__Age:__ 68

__Place of birth:__ Dexter, MO

__Spouse's, children's names:__ Wife: Darlene

Son: John

__Education:__ Three engineering degrees from the University of Missouri at Rolla, now Missouri S&T

__Occupation:__ Retired engineer/manager

__Employer:__ I volunteer several hours a week at both St. Francis and Southeast Hospitals.

__Businesses owned, all or part:__

I was one-third owner of a small consulting engineering firm (ten or so employees) several years ago.

__Public offices held or sought; give dates:__

I served on the school board at Dexter for twelve years and was president four of those years. I ran for state representative in the 151st district in 2012. I did not make it past the primary, but I learned a lot and really enjoyed the experience so I wanted to try again.

__Website:__ None

__Phone:__ 573-803-1443

__What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?:__

I worked in the private sector for 16 years as a consulting engineer and business owner, and I worked in state government for 25 years, 20 of those as a regional office director. I have worked with and served on various boards, councils, and commissions. With experience in business, government, and education, I know how to get things done and I know how to listen.

__What are the biggest issues facing your district? If elected, how would you address them?:__

The middle class is shrinking. A few are getting wealthy but more are falling into poverty. We have always hoped that our children would have a better life than us and for most of our history that has been true. Not any more, in part because the middle class does not have a strong voice. We all help the poor and many politicians help the rich. I will help the middle class.

__Among the most debated ballot issues for the Aug. 5 election is Amendment 7, the transportation tax. Are you in favor of or against the measure? Why?:__

We need modern, well-maintained highways for our economy to thrive, but I oppose funding them with a sales tax. Highway funding should come from sources that directly relate to transportation, such as fuel taxes, license fees, tolls, etc. I will vote against the sales tax, but if elected I will work to find more appropriate funding sources.

__Do you support Medicaid expansion in Missouri? Why or why not?:__

I support medicare expansion because it would help those in the lower middle-class, it would help doctors, nurses, hospitals and all who work in medical fields, and it's the right thing to do.

__Amendment 1 will also be considered by voters on Aug. 5. What is your stance on the measure commonly known as "right-to-farm?":__

I was born and raised on a small farm and have always supported farmers, but I oppose the "right to farm" amendment. First, we don't need a constitutional amendment for every special interest group. Second, farmers who are good stewards of the land don't have to worry about regulations, but those who pollute the environment or abuse animals should be controlled.