Gardner to take Syler's place as circuit judge

When Judge William Syler retires from his position in Circuit 32, Division I, Michael Gardner will take his place.

The circuit covers Cape Girardeau, Bollinger and Perry counties.

The local lawyer won the position with 35.33 percent of the vote in one of the area's closest races.

Trae Bertrand came in second with 34.99 percent -- he won the majority of the votes in Cape Girardeau County -- and Allen Moss followed with 29.68 percent.

During their months of campaigning, each of the Republican candidates claimed the right experience was a key factor for voters to consider.

Moss quoted his years of experience as Scott County municipal judge, plus 27 years of civil and criminal trial experience, which he previously noted was much more than other candidates.

Bertrand boasted nine years of experience and said he felt he his work with his law firm gave him strong experience in the types of cases typical to the circuit. He also pointed to his hard work ethic and the conservative values he shared with voters in the area.

But Gardner came with his own list of experiences. He began his career working for Stephen Limbaugh Jr. at the Missouri Supreme Court, and working on some of the state's larger cases, including death penalty cases.

In a Tuesday night phone interview, he said he was greatly honored he would be serving in the position once held by Limbaugh, whom Gardner said he considers a mentor.

Throughout his campaign, Gardner has voiced his support for expanding drug court to Bollinger and Perry counties. He also noted candidates should be properly vetted and drug dealers or violent criminals should not be referred to the court.

He also supported having another docket day in Bollinger and Perry counties to maximize efficiency.

"I'm deeply humbled by the trust placed in me by the people of Bollinger, Perry and Cape Girardeau counties," Gardner said. "... It's a true honor to follow in the footsteps of such a distinguished judge like Judge William Syler."

He added that he enjoyed the campaign experience, and was grateful to the many voters who welcomed him and his family to various events across the counties.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641