The votes were counted and Mr Kolkmeyer had over 9000 votes and I had around 4000. So although we lost the race,  District 53 won because we had so many people turn out to vote in a non presidential election year! I was very happy to see the numbers. It means that we have a group that care greatly about what is going on.
   The question I have looking at the numbers is this: Why did the exact same people who voted against Right to Work, for Clean Missouri, for Medical Marijuana, for a higher Minimum Wage and against a Gas Tax vote back in the man who was FOR Right to Work, Against Clean Missouri, Against Medical Marijuana, Against a higher minimum wage, and For a higher Gas Tax? I don't mean to be or seem stupid or snide. I truly want to know what everyone who voted for him was thinking. Honestly! If any of you have any insights I would truly like to hear the reasons. Because I just don't get it...
   So, what is next for Connie Simmons? My husband and I are thinking of buying an older house to restore and sell. I plan on continuing to attend Lafayette County Democrats meetings, Johnson County Democrats meetings, and get more involved in our communities. If you know of any groups that would like a guest speaker, give me a call. 816-456-8791. 
   Politically? I knew that a shy girl, new to politics was a long shot to be elected on her first try. Am I disappointed? Maybe a little, but not really surprised. I am so overwhelmed by the support that I received from each of you and am still receiving that I am proud to announce my candidacy for Missouri House of Representatives District 53 in 2020! We have two years to spread the word. My message for this campaign is that we need to educate District 53 that the issues they voted for and thought were important in 2018 were not the issues that their elected candidate thought were important. We need to help people see past the Republican or Democrat beside the name and vote for the Person who best matches their beliefs. We need to gain 20/20 vision by 2020!
   So, keep those signs and keep following my webpage and facebook account. It ain't over til the fat lady sings, and I ain't singin' yet!
If you see any signs up after this weekend please let me know locations so that I can go get them. Those things are expensive and I plan on saving them for 2020!

   I had a great night with new friends in Higginsville tonight. We met to talk about Tuesday's election and what each of the Amendments and Propositions meant and if we thought they were good or bad ideas. We discussed people running for office and who would be a good choice. Of course we thought Connie Simmons would be a good person for Mo House of Representatives District 53.
   It has been a crazy last couple of months. I have discovered a new me inside the quiet, shy, non public Connie. I have gotten up in front of people of all ages and backgrounds and spoken about what my idea of a representative is. I believe that a representative's job is to find out what their district wants them to vote for and against and do what the majority wants, Not just what you want.
   I believe that our future depends on our Children and their education and it is our duty to make sure that is a priority NOW. School funding has been cut over the last several years and we cannot afford for that to continue. 
   I believe that our elder community need our support and that health care and medicines should be available to everyone, equally.
   I believe that our roads and infrastructure are in terrible shape and that we need a proposition that puts all of the proceeds directly into roads, immediately.
   I believe that we need to help our veterans. If not for them we would not be voting.   Thank you for your service and your sacrifice.
   I believe that we need to support veteran's homes and rural hospitals that are closing at alarming rates.
   I believe that Right to Work was Wrong and we need to insure that it does not try and come back to Missouri.
   I believe that it it way past time Missouri passed the Equal Rights Amendment brought up in the 70's. Women who do the exact same job as men deserve the exact same wages, not 20% less.
   I believe that the second amendment is an important part of American History and should never be taken from us. I am a gun owner and a pretty good shot.
   I believe that America is Great. Always has been and always will be.
   I believe that Missouri is the greatest state to live in.
   I believe that it is our DUTY to vote on Tuesday. Not just a right that our ancestors  fought and gave their lives for. We owe them. We all need to read about each candidate and make informed decisions on each issue. Do not trust any media sources no matter where it comes from to make the decisions for you. Do not allow any political party to make the decisions for you. Read, ask questions, find the answers and Vote.
   If you have any questions for me and want to know what I think about any issue, call or text me 816-456-8791. Email me at simmons4house53@gmail.com I will always answer your questions honestly and if I don't know an answer, I will tell you I don't and try and find an answer for you.