Nixon campaigns in Cape Girardeau

Attorney General Jay Nixon, campaigning for governor, called for change in the state government at a meet-and-greet event Saturday held at a residence near the Dalhousie Golf Club.

"You do not have to accept the way things are when you get in," Nixon said. "You can actually run for change, and you can change things."

Roughly 40 people attended the event at the home of Shafiq Malik where finger foods, sandwiches and drinks were served. Attendance was free, but the campaign was collecting donations at the entrance of the home.

Nixon, the Democratic candidate for governor, arrived at the private home around 11 a.m., about half an hour behind schedule. Upon arrival, he mingled with the crowd while answering questions and shaking hands.

Nixon took about 15 minutes to give remarks and answer questions to explain why he was running for the governorship. He focused his remarks on developing Missouri to become energy independent and an "energy exporter." He also called for health-care and education reform.

Malik, who volunteered his home for the event, and former state representatives Jerry Ford and Marvin Proffer coordinated the event after they decided they needed to do something to help the campaign.

Ford and Malik said the event was intended not just to attract Democrats but also Republicans. They said they wanted to allow members of both parties to come out and meet Jay Nixon as he campaigns through rural Missouri.

"We want Americans to come here, not only Democrats," Malik said. "It doesn't matter red or blue. Republican and Democratic values aren't any different."

In his remarks, Nixon promised to be a governor for all Missourians.

Supporters at the event cited Nixon's experience as a state senator and 16 years as attorney general as reasons to support him.

"He's the man for the job," said supporter Sam Unnerstall.

U.S. Rep. Kenny Hulshof and State Treasurer Sarah Steelman are still vying for the Republican nomination for governor. Steelman was also in Cape Girardeau Saturday to help build a home for Habitat for Humanity. The Southeast Missourian did not receive her news release in time to schedule coverage.

tthomas@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 197

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Attorney General Jay Nixon speaks in Cape Girardeau Saturday

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