Swinger declared election winner

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- With Dr. Terry Swinger's special election victory as state representative officially confirmed, the Caruthersville Democrat says he is anxious to get to work.

Secretary of State Matt Blunt certified the results of the Nov. 4 election on Thursday. Swinger received 60.4 percent of the vote to claim a seat in the House of Representatives serving Pemiscot County and parts of Dunklin and New Madrid counties.

Swinger will serve the remaining year of the term Denny Merideth, D-Caruthersville, won in 2002 and will seek a full two-year term in 2004.

"I look forward to running again," Swinger said.

Swinger said he expects to formally be sworn into office when the new legislative session begins on Jan. 7. With the election results certified, House chief clerk Stephen Davis said Swinger can formally take office at any time.

He is already meeting with state and local officials plus citizens group in preparation of the legislature term. Of particular concern to Swinger is improvements in education funding.

"I have visited with every superintendent in my district," Swinger said. "It is my goal to stay really closely connected with local schools."

Although the only Democrat representative in the Bootheel, Swinger said he would continue the tradition of cooperation among area lawmakers regardless of party.