Senate Republicans today unanimously endorsed Sen. Charlie Shields, R-St. Joseph, to serve as President Pro Tem, the Missouri Senate’s top position, for the 95th General Assembly beginning Jan. 7, 2009. Shields must be elected to the post by the full Senate when they convene. He has served as the Senate Majority Floor Leader since 2005.
“The people of Missouri are facing many challenges, and none greater than a tough economy,” Shields said. “My goal as Senate Leader will be to work with the House and new governor to make sure we protect taxpayers, giving them every opportunity to pursue their dreams and raise their families here in Missouri.”
Also elected to Senate Majority Caucus leadership positions:
· Sen. Kevin Engler, R-Farmington, elected Majority Floor Leader
· Sen. Jack Goodman, R-Mt. Vernon, re-elected Assistant Majority Floor Leader
· Sen. Tom Dempsey, R-St. Charles, elected Majority Caucus Whip
· Sen. Bill Stouffer, R-Napton, elected Caucus Chair
· Sen. Delbert Scott, R-Lowry City, re-elected Caucus Secretary
Shields said the leadership of these senators will be an important key to passing legislation that improves the everyday lives of all Missourians.
“We bucked the national trend and increased a strong majority in the Missouri Senate on Election Day by gaining three more seats because the people of Missouri trust us to protect their pocketbooks from out-of-control spending, especially in these uncertain times,” Shields said. “Our leadership team will build on the common sense reforms we’ve passed and continue to work for the people by creating more jobs, making sure our state’s tax structure only generates enough revenue to pay for the critical functions of government, making healthcare available and affordable for all Missourians, and improving higher education while easing students’ costs.”
