158TH DISTRICT CANDIDATES DIFFER LITTLE ON THE ISSUES

Republican State Rep. Mary C. Kasten and Democratic challenger Melinda Benton McCulley agreed more than they disagreed at Sunday's candidates' forum at Southeast Missouri State University.

They are seeking a two-year term in the Nov. 8 election from Missouri's 158th Legislative District, which comprises most of Cape Girardeau.

Both candidates support Amendment 6, the riverboat gambling amendment and a measure to allow people with permits to carry concealed weapons, both oppose Amendment 7, the Hancock II amendment, and both have problems with measures relating to educational standards.

Both believe Hancock II is too complex and that extensive litigation would be required to interpret the amendment.

Kasten favors the idea of allowing taxpayers to vote on tax increases, but said Amendment 7 is more complicated than that.

McCulley said Amendment 7 would have a devastating effect on cities, schools, counties and the state.

On term limits, Kasten isn't opposed to them but is sorry the state has to have them.

Voters have a perfect way to end terms by voting politicians out, she said.

McCulley favors term limits, saying it is difficult to run a campaign against a longtime incumbent who will receive most of the PAC contributions.

She said people have the right to run for political office, but nonincumbents have a difficult fund-raising challenge.

Kasten said plans to curb welfare should begin on the community level, something she has been working for.

McCulley said she would encourage state agencies to implement some of the bills that have been passed.

Both candidates have problems with measures relating to Outcomes-Based Education.

McCulley said performance-based education is better.

Kasten wants to endure that local districts maintain control of the curriculum.

Sunday's forum was sponsored by the Cape County League of Women Voters and political science and mass communications departments at the university.

About 40 people attended the forum.