Nov. 2014: 8th District U.S. House of Representatives: Jason Smith

__Name:__ Jason Smith

__Age:__ 34

__Place of birth:__ Native of Dent County

Jason Smith

__Spouse's, children's names:__ Not married yet and no children

__Education:__

Undergraduate Degrees in Agricultural Economics and Business Administration from the University of Missouri, Law Degree from Oklahoma City Law School

__Occupation:__ Small Business Owner, Farmer, and Member of Congress

__Employer:__ The people of the 8th Congressional District

__Businesses owned, all or part:__ Smith Family Farm, Smith & Parker Enterprises, LLC

__Public offices held or sought; give dates:__

Salem School Board April 2005

State Representative, District 150; 2005-2012

State Representative, District 120; 2013

United States Congressman, 2013-2014

__Website:__ www.electjasonsmith.com

__Email:__ kristijking74@gmail.com (Kristi King, Campaign Administrator, Jason Smith for Congress)

__Phone:__ 573-803-2084

__Poverty is among the top issues throughout Missouri's 8th District. What are your strategies to improve the district's economy and create more jobs?:__

The best way out of poverty is a good job. When rules and regulations close down large employers like the Doe Run lead smelter, raise electric rates, and require expensive new permits, job-seekers suffer the most. We need to get Washington out of the way and start creating jobs again. I sponsored legislation to repeal 15% of rules and regulations, and require old rules and regulations to be repealed before new rules can be issued.

__A constant criticism of Congress is gridlock caused by party clashes. What efforts would you make to work with both parties to pass bills that will improve the state and the district?:__

I think the gridlock in Washington is caused because the Senators and Representatives do not know one another. I have made it a goal to meet with every other Member of Congress, Republican or Democrat. I am well on my way towards completing this goal. You are never going to agree with anyone 100% of the time. We do not have to compromise our values to be able to cooperate and find solutions to problems.

__Do you approve of the U.S. airstrikes against ISIS?:__

I approve of the air strikes. The barbaric acts committed by ISIS against the United States and all of humanity must not go unanswered. Targeting Christians and other religious minorities is unacceptable. Before the President escalates further attacks he should make the case to the American people by coming to Congress for a vote, with international support, and an international coalition. The United States cannot be the only country bearing the cost of the fight.

__Do you support the Keystone XL Pipeline project?:__

Yes. It has been more than SIX YEARS since backers of the Keystone XL Pipeline first submitted an application to the U.S. State Department to begin construction. This crucial project would build needed infrastructure while creating thousands of jobs and promoting energy independence. I have demanded action by voting for legislation to approve the Keystone Pipeline immediately; President Obama should not make us wait.

__Closing remarks:__

If you want a politician you will agree with 100% of the time, then I am not your man. But if you want someone who will put his heart and soul into the 8th district and work hard for you, then I would appreciate your vote on November 4th. I have been endorsed by Farm Bureau, NFIB, Right to Life, NRA and others because I believe in standing up for what you believe is right.