Your Opinion: Candidates for judge urged to debate publicly

Dear Editor:

Our state's highest court judges are appointed and not elected. This came about because many years ago; the citizens of our state were concerned when our judge races became so political and influenced by outside special interests. It is unfortunate that the non-partisan court plan does not extend to the circuit level. But what is going on here in Cole County in this race between Judge Joyce and Mr. Stumpe?

Stumpe may be a nice guy. But why is someone from outside Missouri willing to spend over $200,000 (or more) just to get him elected? There is even more outside money couched as not affiliated with his campaign. Under obscure yet intentional campaign disclosure rules the benefactor(s?) are not disclosed. Dozens if not hundreds of local contributors in small donations shows widespread and knowledgeable support for Joyce.

As voting citizens of Cole County it is our duty to know the facts and elect the best candidate for the job, not to be swayed by outside money. We are lucky that we are still a small enough community that we can meet our candidates, and hear them speak at public events about their candidacy and how they will act if elected.

Unfortunately, we have not had this opportunity. Why won't Stumpe speak at a public forum? Why can't we have a public debate?