BY: MAX WILSON
Staff Writer
On Nov. 8, 2022, voters in Missouri’s second congressional district will be tasked with voting for their next U.S. representative. Currently, there are three democratic candidates and two republican candidates. Rep. Ann Wagner (R) has held the seat since 2013.
The Montage interviewed one of the democratic candidates, Missouri state representative Trish Gunby (D) about the race and why she is running for office. Representative Wagner’s office did not respond to more than five separate requests for comment.
Rep. Gunby said that she is running for office because she doesn’t “feel like I’m being represented in this congressional district. We’ve (the constituents) have asked for more from (Rep. Wagner) over the years in terms of town halls and trying to understand her votes and positions on certain issues,” she said.
Gunby said that she feels her experiences as a state representative allows her to “bring a voice that is more in keeping with what I think the beliefs are in the second congressional district,” she said.
On legislative policy issues, Wagner and Gunby are often on opposing sides. According to Representative Wagner’s official website, Wagner opposes abortion. “Protecting the unborn is one of my most precious duties as a member of Congress,” the page reads. It continues, “I believe that life from conception to natural death is our greatest gift.”
Gunby is on the opposite side of the issue.
“On the abortion issue, we are not on the same page,” said Gunby. “If you had told me 40 some odd years ago…that we would actually be moving backward, as Texas has, as Missouri has, and other states are doing…I would not have believed that,” she said. “…reproductive health is between that person, their healthcare provider and their partner, and the government should not be involved.”
Gunby said that she is seeing a shift in political views and policies.
“We are seeing a shift. That is not a shift in terms of Republicans. That is, I believe, where we are as a society. And by that I mean, young people, who are much more welcoming to lots of different individuals..in terms of ethnicity, orientation..welcoming to immigration,” said Gunby.
Wagner’s official website listed immigration as one of her key concerns. “I advocate for fixing our broken immigration system to make our country safe, secure and prosperous. I believe in strong border security,” the website reads.
Gunby said her position is more forward thinking.
“Republicans are not advancing those belief systems,” Gunby said, referring to issues such as climate change and immigration. “For folks who are in the middle, and who are looking at both parties and candidates, I believe that I’m forward thinking in my positions.”
Gunby said she represents everyone in her district. “We may not always agree, but I still am open to hearing your position,” she said.
The primary election will be held on Aug. 2, 2022, and the general election will be held on Nov. 8, 2022. Missouri residents can go to the Secretary of State’s website to confirm their voter registration, register to vote, and find more information about voting laws and upcoming elections.
