Missouri House candidates in Cole County identify public education funding among top priorities

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Four candidates are vying for term-limited seats in Missouri's 59th and 60th House Districts.

Republican candidate Carrie Tergin and Democratic candidate Becky Kroll are running to take over a seat currently held by term-limited State Rep. Rudi Veit (R-Wardsville). Republican candidate Shane Kampeter and Democratic candidate Suzanne Luther are hoping to succeed state Rep. Dave Griffith (R-Jefferson City), who is also term-limited.

Both House District 59 and House District 60 cover part of Cole County, including much of Jefferson City. All four candidates said funding for public education is among their priorities.

HD 59 candidate Tergin -- former Jefferson City mayor -- told ABC 17 News that prioritizing keeping public schools strong will keep families coming to Cole County. She wants the opportunity to work alongside other state representatives on addressing academic needs.

HD 59 candidate Kroll -- longtime Cole County resident -- told ABC 17 News that funding for schools shouldn't be an easy place to make cuts. In building the best possible future for any district, she believes education is the first step.

HD 60 candidate Kampeter -- Fifth Ward Councilman for Jefferson City -- said he understands the House plays a role in helping shape the state’s school funding formula. He said he is passionate about finding ways to support all education in Jefferson City.

HD 60 candidate Luther said with her background as a retired public school teacher and former Jefferson City Board of Education member, the school funding formula is a top priority in her campaign. She told ABC 17 that when funds are pulled from that formula, the rug is immediately being pulled out from under school systems across the state, and that needs to be addressed.

Polling locations across the state are open until 7 p.m. Tuesday. To check your local polling location or see if it has changed, visit your county clerk's website.

Information on what to expect on the ballot can be found in the ABC 17 News Voter Guide.

Check back for updates.