Former judge runs against incumbent for circuit court post

Voters in the state's 32nd Judicial District have a choice between a sitting circuit judge and a former associate circuit judge.

Republican Ben Lewis is challenging Democratic incumbent judge John Heisserer for his position on the district's bench, which covers Cape Girardeau, Bollinger and Perry counties. Heisserer was appointed to the bench in March 2003.

Lewis was elected associate circuit judge in 1990 and served until 1994, when he was defeated by Grimm.

Both candidates claim a strong work ethic and say they have what it takes to be a good judge.

"I think in our area most people expect a judge to have some conservative values and common sense," Lewis said.

Heisserer said, "I bring a strong work ethic I have built up based on my family background and nearly a quarter century of practicing law."

Both Heisserer and Lewis have practiced law in Cape Girardeau for more than 20 years. After law school, Heisserer worked as an extern, which he said is similar to an intern, in federal district court in New Orleans. Lewis spent his first year out of law school as a bailiff and clerk for a judge in Kansas City.

Both candidates are active in their churches and in the community. Heisserer was appointed by the Missouri Supreme Court to a committee rewriting alternative dispute resolution rules, and Lewis has been president of the local bar association.

lredeffer@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 160