Hartzler Returns to Howell County

Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate Vicky Hartzler paid her second visit to Howell County on Saturday. Hartzler is seeking the Republican nomination in Tuesday’s primary election against 21 other contenders. All 22 on the ballot, plus a dozen Democrats, are jostling for the seat soon to be vacated by Senator Roy Blunt. Hartzler and fellow Republican Mark McCloskey are the only candidates who have visited the area this election season.

Hartzler’s appearance took place in the lobby of Hirsch Feed & Farm Supply on Saturday morning.

Several figures in Howell County politics were on hand to greet her, including candidates for local office Bryan Brauer, Ralph Riggs, and Janet Crow. Elected representatives on hand included State Representative David Evans, County Collector Dennis VonAllmen, and former Missouri State Treasurer Wendell Bailey.

In her stump speech, Hartzler hammered her adversarial relationship with China. She has been formally sanctioned by China and banned from the country. She criticized her opponents as well as the current presidential administration for being too soft on China.

“The people running the country are ruining it!” she said.

Hartzler spent most of her speech outlining what she calls “The Missouri Plan”, promising:

-To get the economy going
-Embrace American energy
-Rebuild a strong national defense
-Secure the border with Mexico
-Stand strong for agriculture

Polls show Hartzler in a three-way heat against Eric Schmitt and Eric Greitens. In an exclusive interview, Hartzler told Howell County News her opponents began the race with more name recognition statewide, but that she has steadily