Missouri Governor Matt Blunt announced earlier this year that he will not seek a second term in office. Hoping to take his place are Republican candidates Kenny Hulshof (US Congressman) and Sarah Steelman (State Treasurer).

The Relevant Elephant recently interviewed Congressman Kenny Hulshof. Here are his thoughts on Missouri, conservatism, and young voters:

The Relevant Elephant: What does it mean to be a conservative?

Kenny Hulshof: A conservative is someone who believes in limited government, as well as the core values upon which our nation was founded.

I want Missouri’s state government to do its job well and then get out of the way of the American spirit. I want it to live within its means, just as every Missouri family has to do. 

Government should be responsive to the needs of constituents while always being responsible with taxpayer resources.


TRE: As recent polls suggest, young voters are increasingly aligning with liberals. Why is this? What would make the Republican Party more relevant?

KH: Generally speaking, young voters do tend to be more moderate than their more seasoned counterparts. However, that often changes as they begin to pay taxes, raise families and plan for retirement. Suddenly they see the devastating impact liberal policies can have on their families and their pocketbooks.

The best way to get the conservative message out to young voters is via other young conservatives. Personal testimony trumps the most polished TV ad every time.

That is not always easy for conservatives, especially on many of our nation’s college campuses. 

However, I hear from college students all the time who are pleasantly surprised when they learn how many conservatives are on campus. They always thought they were alone! It’s only when they speak out that they learn other young conservatives were simply waiting for someone to lead the way.


TRE: Who has been most influential in shaping your political views? Why?

KH: Early on it was Jerry Litton from northwest Missouri. He showed me that a farm kid from Missouri could accomplish anything.

I have had the honor of working with, and learning from, people like Kit Bond, Roy Blunt and Ike Skelton.

Even though he wasn’t a politician, in fact far from it, my dad was probably my biggest influence. One of the best lessons he ever gave to me was “the only thing worth keeping in life is your good name.” 

That’s good advice in politics and every walk of life.

TRE: Why should a young voter in Missouri vote for someone with conservative ideals? Specifically, why should they vote for you?

KH: I bring a fresh perspective to Jefferson City. I think Missourians are tired of blind partisanship – the kind that kills an idea simply because it comes from the wrong person or wrong party.

Young voters have said time and again that they’re most interested in results. They want to see solutions over partisan bickering. 

I have never been afraid to do what’s right, even if it meant political peril. I have stood up to powerful interests when necessary, because I believe those who hold public office should be held to a higher standard. 

I will represent Missourians with the same honor and integrity by which they live their lives every day.

TRE: As it relates to the issues, why should a young conservative choose to vote for you over Sarah Steelman?

KH: One of the most important issues for younger voters is the economy. They want to know that quality careers are going to be available here in Missouri.

This is accomplished two ways. First, Missouri’s students need to have access to a first-class education. We want to be sure that the workforce of tomorrow is trained for the quality careers of the 21st Century.

Second, we need to make sure that entrepreneurs understand the benefits of setting up shop in Missouri. If they don’t see the advantages, they will take their business, and the jobs that come with them, somewhere else.

If Missouri’s economy is strong, young workers will be able to establish roots here, if they choose. They won’t have to look elsewhere to accomplish their goals, because every opportunity will be available for them to achieve the Missouri Dream right here within our state.



Visit Kenny’s website to see where he stands on the issues and come back to our Election 2008 page where you can rate Congressman Hulshof on his relevance to young voters.

The Relevant Elephant has also contacted the Steelman campaign for an interview and will keep you posted.