After recent candidate forums, the News Tribune asked those running for state offices some follow-up questions posed by readers.
Here are the responses to one of those questions from the Democratic candidates for the 60th District Missouri House seat, who seek to represent most of Jefferson City.
In the order they are listed on the ballot, the Democratic candidates are Kevin Nelson and Sara Michael.
The winner of the Aug. 7 primary will face the winner of the Republican primary from among candidates Jane Beetem, Pat Rowe Kerr and Dave Griffith.
Responses may have been edited for length and clarity.
From reader Wayne Lee: What would you do to be accessible to your constituents?
Nelson: Serving all the people in District 60 will be an honor, and I hope to get feedback from as many citizens as possible. As I've mentioned previously in the News Tribune, I look forward to starting a listening tour so that I can meet my constituents, hear their concerns and give them the chance to keep me accountable. Additionally, I have multiple ways that voters can reach me besides face-to-face. My phone number is 573-645-1901, and my email address is [email protected].
Michael: Besides maintaining an active digital media platform, making myself and my staff available to be contacted any time someone needs us, has a question or has a suggestion, I will have the great advantage of actually being in my district when I am in session. Representing the 60th District allows me to be present, every day, in the same community as my constituents; and I plan on having an open-door policy so every individual with a suggestion, concern or request can be heard.