Barnes Announces for State House
January 14, 2010 12:00 PMBy Patrick Tuohey
One of our colleagues here at The Missouri Record, Jay Barnes, has announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination to the 114th district of the Missouri House of Representatives. The position is currently held by Republican Bill Deeken, who is barred from seeking a fifth term.
On his campaign website, Barnes lists as his priorities improving the local economy, protecting state jobs and promoting a culture of life. These goals are not that different from those of the current representative, or likely from anyone also seeking the Republican party nomination.
What sets Jay apart from most people I know is how he has spent his time leading up to this candidacy. In Tony Messenger's post about the matter, he described some of Barnes' background:
[Barnes] worked as a Blunt speechwriter and policy counsel, is running for the 114th District seat in Jefferson City. After leaving state government, Barnes, a lawyer, was the policy adviser to Kenny Hulshof during the Republican’s run for governor in 2008.
A similar story in the News-Tribune detailed more:
He also served as general counsel when Mike Gibbons, R-Kirkwood, was Senate president pro tem.
...and he once worked as the Washington, D.C., correspondent for NewsMax, a national conservative magazine.
I mention his background not to suggest--as is all too common among Republicans--that Barnes has served his time as a supporting player and is now due this seat. The voters of the 114th District are well-qualified to make that decision themselves.
Rather, I include the background because it demonstrates that Barnes is already making good on his determination to make this state and this country a better place. The people of the 114th District have an opportunity to put Barnes' considerable talent and experience to more effective use for their own benefit.
Whatever decision voters reach, all should be satisfied that the opportunity for public service still draws our best and brightest.
The people of the 114th District have an opportunity to put Barnes' considerable talent and experience to more effective use for their own benefit.
