24th District State Representative Candidate: Jim Ritter

Q What qualifications would you bring to the job?

A My career in education was spent primarily with the Columbia Public Schools. As superintendent of schools, I had the responsibility of providing the best possible education for all of our children, serving as the CEO of the third-largest employer in Boone County and managing a budget of $160 million. During my 33 years with the school district, I had the opportunity to serve on the boards of numerous social service agencies that, in turn, served the human needs of our community. All these experiences have given me a good feel for the values, concerns and interests of the people in the 24th District.

Q What key issue(s) are you focused on in the race?

A My primary focus will be on education, preschool through college. I will work to provide adequate funding for all levels of education and will oppose vouchers and tuition tax credits that will take money from our public schools. Another high priority will be adequate and affordable health care, especially for some of our most vulnerable citizens. Other issues of importance to me are economic development and job creation, passage of the stem cell research initiative and issues related to senior citizens. Additionally, I am concerned about the deep political division in the House of Representatives, and I will work hard to bring people together for what is good for this state.

Q What was the key moment you decided to run?

A My decision to run for office was not sudden, but was made after several months of careful consideration. I had had a rewarding professional career and was enjoying retirement. I was encouraged to become a candidate by many community citizens from both political parties. Having a passion for many of the issues being considered by the General Assembly and seeing this as an opportunity to give back to a community that has given so much to me and family were the final elements of my decision. Mayor Darwin Hindman told me that what he regretted most in life were the things he didn’t do. That, perhaps, pushed me over the edge.