On Nov. 6, eligible voters in Missouri District 63 will have the opportunity to vote for FHN teacher Bryan Spencer, for State Representative.
Spencer, a Republican, is running for his first public office against Bill Stinson, a Democrat of Wright City, MO.
“I learned that voting is not enough,” Spencer said. “You have to get involved, and whether it’s to be a volunteer or running for office, you have to be involved.”
FHN teacher William Crow has supported Spencer throughout his campaign and has done his share of volunteering by helping in fundraisers, walking in parades, going to events, putting up signs, working polls, and helping with phone sales.
“He’s been a good friend for a number of years,” Crow said. “Over the years we have talked about his political goals, political beliefs. In many ways we have similar beliefs. I like the fact that he wants to honestly help the people. He doesn’t have a personal agenda; we don’t see that much anymore.”
Spencer’s longtime colleague, Sean Fowler, who teaches Psychology and AP US History, supports Spencer’s educational values.
“Spencer and I don’t see eye-to-eye politically, but I think he would be a good representative of common sense for the interests of education at the State House,” Fowler said.
“One of the most rewarding things that this campaign has been, is that every time I go walking I run into a former student, volleyball player, wrestler, football player, and they are getting involved with the campaign,”cer has been a teacher in the FHSD for 22 years teaching at Fairmount, Hollenbeck, Barnwell, and currently Francis Howell North. He has taught Social Studies and is teaching Special Education classes at North. Over the years he has also coached wrestling, football, and volleyball. In 2011, Spencer was inducted into the FHSD Hall of Fame.
Spencer said. “Whether it’s working the phone banks, going door to door, hanging posters, or coming to events.” Spencer has political experience going into this election as well. He was elected twice to the St. Charles County Central Committee. Spencer was elected Chairman of the 23rd Senatorial and the 12th Legislature in 2010. He also serves on St. Charles County’s community assistance board.
According to Spencer and Crow, Spencer’s campaign has been very focused on getting involved in the community and being recognized.
“You want to be as visible as possible in every facet you can,” said Crow. Thus, Spencer has focused on getting involved. If there is an event he can squeeze into his calendar, he does. Spencer participates in “anything and everything,” including meet and greets, town hall meetings, marching band competitions, and veteran parades.
Some of Spencer’s supporters include Republicans, Tea Party members, some union members, fellow politicians, some farmers, many teachers, as well as some moderate Democrats.
“I have a wide spread of supporters. I am not trying to get any certain types,” Spencer said. “I need everybody.”
If Stinson is elected, he plans to oppose “extremist Republican ideas,” such as Right to Work. He wants to protect senior citizens as well as early childhood care. As a former businessman and veteran, Stinson believes he is better qualified for the position.
“I consider myself a moderate democrat that wants to keep the integrity of schools, senior citizens and organized labor intact,” Stinson said. Stinson’s wife, and treasurer, Janice stands by her husband and strongly supports his cause. She helps with events and “behind the scenes” details to help make Stinson’s campaign successful.
However, Spencer believes he is a voice for everyone he meets. “I will be there as much as I can,” Mrs. Stinson said. “I am just hoping on meeting wonderful people to bring great things to Missouri.”
“I really represent everyone who knows me or comes into contact with me because we are making laws for all of them, not just the people I have to represent,” Spencer said. “My goal is to establish the best living/working environment for the citizens of Missouri.”
