Jason Kander visits Southeast on campaign

Missouri Secretary of State and senatorial candidate Jason Kander, met with Southeast Missouri State University students and community members on Monday to promote his Senate campaign.

The event began with a brief introduction from former Marines, Lt. Gen. John Castellaw and Union Veterans Council member Will Fischer. Kander, a United States Army veteran then took the stage.

The general theme of the rally was centered around veteran affairs throughout Missouri and the nation, as well as protecting the middle class. Kander, who is a member of the Democratic party, capitalized on the problem of what he describes as a “gridlock in Congress” and how it has led to a “gridlock in the national conversation.”

He went on to say the “gridlock” has made it hard to talk about the problems we (the United States) face, without everything becoming polarized. He then explained that he sees firsthand that this issue is what typically turns the millennial generation away from politics, due to the fact that this is the only version of American politics that they know.

“I just can’t sit by and let this happen,” said Kander, as he advocated for a more united state and nation.

Kander later spoke about problems facing the middle class, saying “America is at its best when the middle class is at its strongest,” and that as a former Army Captain, he “didn’t join the military to help the top one percent … but to help all Americans.”

The event was concluded with a few minutes for handshakes, photo opportunities, and questions from students and community members.