Informed citizens are democracy’s best defense. Know who you are voting for.

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    Our Southeast Missouri Southern Illinois and communities are at a crossroads, as is our state and our nation. The upcoming 2024 election will be one that will have a significant impact on the African American Community in terms of the ideas espoused by the candidates running for office, who is elected and issues on the ballot.

    At stake is the decision to move forward or to return to policies that do not address the issues confronting the African American community. We have the numbers to affect change if we choose to use that strength. We have been allowing others to speak for us and make decisions for us and our communities  That is what happens when you do not vote.

    Black voters, arguably the most loyal Democrats, could play a key role in which party controls Congress and whether President Joe Biden remains in the White House. 

    Once again, the Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling that can either reinforce or further weaken Black voting rights. Also at stake is the economic well-being of Black households after a year that saw record-low Black unemployment. Black child poverty declined, Black entrepreneurs are creating small businesses at a faster pace, and infrastructure in communities of color are getting long-overdue investments. Yes there are things on Biden’s agenda, including his full student loan debt plan, haven’t gotten done, yet. “We could have had even more progress,” said the DNC Chair. “But he needs to get re-elected, and he needs more help in the House and the Senate to get it done.”

    Missouri: Lucas Kunce is the leading Democratic candidate in Missouri running to replace Josh Hawley in the US Senate. (click the link learn more) Lucas Kunce for U.S. Senate

    Franklin Delano “Denny” Roth II. “Denny” a retired farmer and Jefferson County resident has announced his candidacy for the Missouri 8th District U.S. House seat. “Denny” is seeking to unseat Jason Smith Republican incumbent.  “Our district needs better jobs, higher wages, affordable health care including access to rural hospitals, a new farm program that does a better job of helping small farmers and to protect and increase Social Security benefits. Everyone wants these things — Democrats and Republicans aren’t nearly as far apart as the media would have us believe. We don’t have to hate each other over issues.” Roth said, “I was a grain farmer for 26 years with my father where I learned the value of hard work, determination and honesty.” Roth, who is for universal health care and is pro-union, said he will file in to run in the August primary for the Democratic nomination. His website is www.fdrii4mo.com.

    Michael Davis, a Cape Girardeau, resident for over 20 years and pastor with the United Methodist Church since 1994. Is a candidate for state representative of the 147th district, Cape Girardeau. a position currently held by John Voss a politician whose views do not represent the interest of the Black community. If elected said Michael I would use this opportunity to represent you, I would spend my time: fighting for public education, women’s rights, healthcare, unions, and issues that matter to the citizens of Cape Girardeau. I  believe everyone wants a return to civility and normalcy no matter if you are Republican or Democrat.  I am committed to listening to you and I will work for you.”

    Jamie Burger, a longtime Scott County commissioner and current 148, representative in the state House, announced plans Friday to run for the District 27 Senate district Senate seat held by Sen. Holly Thompson Rehder. The District 27 Senate district represents the counties of Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Iron, Madison, Perry, Reynolds and Scott.

    Holly Thompson Rehder, has announced she is running for lieutenant governor.

    Southern Illinois: Lynne Chambers Attorney, a Southern Illinois native who resides in Grand Chain, IL, has announced for Pulaski county States Attorney. Lynne Chambers holds a Juris Doctorate from the Southern Illinois University School of Law with a Specialization in Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution, She is a member of the adjunct faculty of Southeast Missouri State University and Shawnee Community College. She is member of the Board of Directors of the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, and Legal Redress Chair for the Illinois State Conference of Branches, and the Alexander/Pulaski County Branch of the NAACP.  Lynne is also the Executive Director for Legacy Training Inc, whose vision is to alleviate poverty of the mind, body and spirit.