(Senator McCarter answering questions from the public at a town hall meeting held at the Effingham VFW.)
State Senator Kyle Mcarter, who represents the local 54th district, held a town hall meeting Monday night in Effingham at the Effingham VFW. Senator McCarter invited Congressman John Shimkus to attend the event, though he was not present. McCarter is challenging Shimkus in the March 15th republican primary. Shimkus represents the local 15th congressional district. He has held the position for 20 years. That is a key point in McCarter’s campaign, as he is a strong supporter of term limits.
At Monday’s town hall meeting, which was attended by around 65 local voters, McCarter explained his reason for running for Congress. He told those in attendance that he wanted to give voters a choice about their representation, something he said hasn’t been available during Shimkus’ term. McCarter also took questions from the audience. He was questioned about his current residence, which is out of the district. McCarter explained that he lives four-tenths of a mile south of the district’s border, and that he his actively working to move within the district. McCarter was also asked about his stance on federal funding being provided for planned parenthood. The 54th district senator explained his stance as a pro-life advocate, and said that he opposes any government funding for organizations that provide abortions.