Candidate Q&A - State house; Donnie Kiefer

District 160

1. Options to help the state out of its continuing budget problems include raising taxes, eliminating more programs or a combination of the two. Which would you prefer and why?

These are options to help the state with its budget problems. However, I prefer programs that assist our existing businesses and attract new businesses to Missouri in order to increase our tax base and tax revenue. Also, a critical review of program consolidation rather than program elimination would be preferred.

2. Keeping in mind that lawmakers have no control over how money from the state road fund is spent, what action do you propose to improve Missouri's transportation system?

I would propose a review process by a nonpartisan body of the Missouri Department of Transportation's budget and its uses. These reviews would be required on a quarterly basis with a report to the legislature so that corrective action could be taken if necessary.

3. With the large number of fresh faces in the General Assembly next year due to term limits, what changes would you propose in the way the legislature does business?

The large number of "fresh faces" next year provides a great opportunity for the General Assembly to create a new culture and atmosphere of bipartisan cooperation to pursue legislation important and vital to our state and its citizens. I intend to sponsor and support legislation important to my constituents and hope to do so within the framework of such a culture and atmosphere.

4. What agriculture-related legislation would you propose?

I would sponsor and support legislation that assists all our farmers, both large and small, in their continuing success as one of the foundations of my district's economy. This legislation must provide a level playing field to all our farmers while maintaining our commitment to the environment.

5. In one paragraph, why should someone vote for you rather than your opponent?

As a lifelong small business owner in Scott County and an active participant in numerous community and youth programs, I share the work ethic and common sense values of my fellow citizens of the 160th District. My commitment to these ethics and values will translate to active leadership and representation for all of my constituents. This representation will result in strong support and sponsorship of legislation important to my constituents. I am pro-life. I support and defend the Second Amendment. I will be focused on economic development, improving our school systems, enhancing health care options for the elderly and supporting our farmers, small business owners and the self-employed.