Name: Greg Sharpe
Age: 69
Hometown: Ewing
Occupation: Farming and Missouri state representative
Position sought: State Senator – District 18
Previous political experience: Served past four terms (eight years) as Missouri state representative
Why are you running and why should people vote for you?
I'm a fifth-generation farmer. I sold seed for Pioneer Hi-Bred for 38 years; served on Missouri Soybean Association's board for 15 years, two years as their president; have been involved in multiple agri-business start-ups across the state; and served on Ag Leaders of Tomorrow's (ALOT) board for 16 years. For the past eight years, I've been an unapologetic advocate for Northeast Missouri's values, serving as the State Representative for the 4th district. I bring a lot of experience to the table that will directly benefit the most important needs of the 18th district.
As our next State Senator, I will continue the fight for our rural way of life -- protecting family farmland from eminent domain abuse, fully funding our rural schools, defending our conservative values, and standing up to special interests in Jefferson City. Our land, our children, and our conservative way of life are worth fighting for.
What are your goals if elected?
One of my top priorities will be protecting private property rights and ending the abuse of eminent domain by out-of-state, for-profit corporations seeking to seize Missouri farmland. I intend to take the lead on a constitutional amendment that will protect against these unconstitutional endeavors.
Other priorities include ensuring that rural schools are fully funded by the state formula; expanding the workforce housing partnership I have with the regional planning commission in Memphis, to other counties; and promoting much-needed rural healthcare initiatives in Northeast Missouri, including the reopening of Audrain County's hospital.
What issues are most pressing for your constituency?
