Debate reaction

I would like to thank my fellow candidates for Congress for joining me at the four debates that took place across the 8th District last week. Thanks also to Southeast Missouri State University, Three Rivers Community College, Missouri S&T, and Mineral Area College for hosting these forums. The debates provided voters the opportunity to see firsthand the very real differences between the candidates, and I appreciate my opponents accepting my invitation for these discussions.

The respectful exchange of ideas that took place between the candidates is paramount to the political discourse for which our democracy provides. While we agreed on some things, we disagree on many others, but the honest discussion that took place hopefully served to better inform you, the voter.

It has been a true privilege to serve as your representative in the Congress, and I would be honored to again have your support on Nov. 2.

JO ANN EMERSON, 400 Broadway, No. 501,

Cape Girardeau, MO 63701