The Lafayette County Democratic Central Committee and Club had a large turnout for the April 12 meeting in Higginsville.

Candidates for county, house district and state offices introduced themselves and engaged the group in discussions about issues in the upcoming elections.

Quentin Wilson is running for State Auditor and asked us to identify our priorities. He shared what the auditor’s function is and how the office can help keep government agencies accountable and working for the people. Mr. Wilson has years of experience including Director of Revenue for Missouri as well as serving in other capacities. To learn more visit https://quentin4mo.com/.

Ron Fauss, candidate for Missouri House District 51, spoke about his priorities to save rural hospitals, reform property tax systems and education.

Candidate for House District 53, Beth Grubb, shared her top priority is education and explained the far-reaching complexities of that issue. Small schools are often the top employer of a town illustrating that school funding directly affects local economies.

Pam Fetter is the Democratic candidate for the office of County Collector. She is running to maintain integrity in county government and to work with all office holders in the county to be responsive to the citizens.

Tahnami Gittinger is running for the office of County Auditor, but was unable to attend this meeting. She had spoken to the group in a previous meeting and shared the importance of the auditor’s office working for the people of Lafayette County.

Upcoming dates to note include the next Lafayette County Democrats meeting on Sunday, May 17, at 5:30 p.m. at La Carreta (2009 Main St. Higginsville). Watch for information about the June 14 primary debate. Seven Democrats have filed for the 4th US Congressional District and we look forward to hosting a forum to allow voters to get to know them prior to August primaries. Should the Missouri Supreme Court uphold the mid term redistricting map, Lafayette County will be in the 5th Congressional District and the debate for 4th District candidates will be cancelled.

The last day to register to vote in the Aug. 4 election is July 8. The last day to register for the Nov. 3 election is Oct. 7.

The Lafayette County Democratic Central Committee and Club will hold their Pie Auction Fundraiser on Aug. 29.

Follow the Lafayette County Democratic Central Committee on Facebook to learn more about upcoming events throughout the summer. For questions or to volunteer with these events, email lafcodems@gmail.com.