Bernskoetter seeks new term, files in new House district

State Rep. Mike Bernskoetter, R-Jefferson City, filed for re-election last week, in the new 59th District.

Although the map proposing the new House districts was challenged in a lawsuit and now is waiting for a ruling from the state Supreme Court, if it's upheld as being constitutional, the new 59th District covers mostly rural Cole County, plus a small part of eastern Jefferson City and northeastern Miller County.

In a news release, Bernskoetter said he's "excited" about announcing his candidacy, and looking "forward to building on my record of working hard to create jobs, protect conservative family values, and our state employees. We have seen some improvements in our state in my short time in office, but there are still a lot of families struggling, and I embrace that challenge and look forward to the work yet to come."

During his first term, Bernskoetter said, he's been "focused on keeping Missouri energy rates low, by replacing our aging coal plants with a new nuclear plant in Callaway; chairing a committee to look for ways to get better pay for our state employees; and making Missouri more business friendly, especially for our small businesses."

He added: "As a legislator, you hope that you can make a difference in the lives of those (who) entrusted you with this important job, and I believe I have.

"But I know the work is not done, and I look forward to sharing my vision for improving the 59th District and our whole state."