Republican incumbent Mike Bernskoetter is being challenged by a Constitution Party candidate, who has raised little cash and has not responded to media requests.
The two candidates are competing for the 59th district of the Missouri House of Representatives.
Bernskoetter's opposition, Michael Eberle, served as a treasurer for his party from 2010 to 2012 and was recently re-elected, according to his biography on the party's website, cpmo.us. Visit the site for the party's stance on the issues.
Eberle lives in Jefferson City and is "actively" involved in politics, according to the biography. He did not respond to emails or phone calls to comment for this story.
Bernskoetter, 54, has lived his entire life in Cole County and is married with four children and two grandchildren, according to his website. He and his wife own Art's Pest Control. He enjoys hunting, fishing, playing basketball and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is involved in the Wardsville Lions, Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus, Home Builders Association, Jefferson City Area Board of Realtors, Missouri and National Pest Management Associations.
Bernskoetter has also worked for the Cole County Highway Department, the Sewer Department, and served on the Helias School Board for six years.
He is seeking his third, two-year term. The 59th district encompasses parts of Miller and Cole counties. Bernskoetter defines the position as a job that involves "weighing the advantages and disadvantages of new legislation and working with other legislators and the executive branch to pass bills that benefit Missourians," he wrote in an email. The salary for the position is $35,915 annually.
Bernskoetter is a pro-life candidate, who claims to not have ever voted to cut funding to elementary or secondary schooling. On his website, he said he will strongly reject any legislation that infringes on Second Amendment rights. He does not support government-provided health care, but does support empowering farmers to keep them important to the local economy.
What are the main duties of a representative, and for what are they responsible?
Bernskoetter said the duties are "to listen and respond to the needs of constituents in the 59th District." He said representatives are responsible for "establishing the state's priorities through the budget process, crafting and repealing laws and providing oversight to the executive branch when necessary."
What are three issues affecting the 59th district?
"Keeping the local economy strong, ensuring a good education for our children and helping increase state employee pay," Bernskoetter said.
What got you interested in the office?
"I became interested in public service because I wanted to give back to the community that has given my family so much."
What makes you the better candidate?
"I'm a small business owner that understands how hard it is to keep a business running while providing for my family and employees. I'm also involved with the communities in the district."
What changes or improvements would you make to the office?
"I'd like to see the state move toward greater transparency in how our tax dollars are spent and how the departments develop rules."