Election Season Heats Up in Independence, Missouri
As we approach the general election on November 5th, the spotlight is shining brightly on Independence, a vibrant city that’s buzzing with political energy. With candidates running for both the Missouri Senate District 11 and House District 21, citizens have some important choices to make.
Sparking Change in Senate District 11
In the race for the Missouri Senate District 11, Robert Sauls, a moderate Democrat, is the endorsed candidate. Sauls is no stranger to legislative work, having previously served three terms as a state representative for District 21. He believes in a collaborative approach to lawmaking, stating, “I’m a fairly easy-going moderate that works with both sides of the aisle.” This attitude is particularly refreshing given the tensions that often flare in the Missouri Senate, where disagreements can lead to legislative gridlock, especially in the recent sessions dominated by the hard-right Missouri Freedom Caucus.
Sauls is advocating for a more civil atmosphere in Jefferson City, urging, “We need grown-ups in the room. I don’t go down there to argue with children.” In his tenure, he has successfully worked across party lines on several meaningful bills, including one that toughens penalties for those who flee from police. Valentine’s Law, which went into effect recently, reflects Sauls’ commitment to community safety.
Sauls’ priorities include ensuring better pay for educators, fully funding public schools, and tackling issues of crime and poverty. He has also expressed support for state laws requiring voter approval for larger school districts to transition to a four-day school week, advocating for community engagement in educational decisions.
On the other side of the aisle, we have Joe Nicola, a hard-right Republican who emphasizes personal liberty and freedoms. Nicola won a competitive primary and believes he is running to protect what he sees as threatened personal freedoms in Missouri. He has described his campaign focus on preserving homeownership, stating, “We are being taxed out of them.” However, some of his choices, such as keeping his church open during the pandemic, have raised eyebrows, particularly regarding their alignment with public health guidelines. Legal experts have also flagged ethical concerns over his financial contributions to his own campaign using church donations.
House District 21: A Choice for Change
In parallel to the Senate race, Missouri House District 21 is also heating up with Will Jobe running against Marjain Breitenbach. Jobe, a Democrat, has a history of public service as a former Missouri public defender and has dedicated years of his life to the military following the events of 9/11. With a heartfelt commitment to his community and family, he states, “9/11 changed everything for me and a lot of different other people.”
Jobe’s priorities include community welfare, health, and education, making him a candidate that many believe can effectively represent the spirited residents of Independence in Jefferson City.
Breitenbach, on the other hand, has a track record of controversial statements and positions, particularly surrounding public health mandates during the COVID-19 crisis. His actions of displaying confrontational signage about immigration and COVID-19 as well as disregarding mask mandates have sparked public backlash. In a moment that raised serious health concerns, he was indeed hospitalized after showing up maskless at a City Council meeting, forcing many attendees to undergo testing.
What Lies Ahead for Voters
As November 5th draws near, voters in Independence, Missouri, will have some crucial decisions to make. The contrasting visions presented by Sauls and Nicola in the Senate race, paired with Jobe’s genuine community focus versus Breitenbach’s polarizing approach in the House race, lay a compelling and informative landscape for the electorate.
This election isn’t just about choosing representatives—it’s about shaping the values and future of the community. It’s a chance for the residents to voice their opinions through the ballot box and influence the direction of local legislation. Whether you’re a supporter of collaboration, community safety, or personal liberties, your vote is your voice.
Be sure to check out local resources and your voter guide. Make your voice heard this election season!
