Why We Should Still Vote for Valentine, but Encourage Additional Talking Points: Education

Trudy Busch Valentine has emphasized the healthcare related tragedies in her family as well as a threat of women’s rights as her core motivation in running for Missouri Senate. Valentine has continued to advocate for an end of the opioid epidemic and stand up against extreme abortion ban in Missouri. All of these carry heavy weight towards a potential Senate seat. She has successfully gained support from women and healthcare workers in Missouri that should not be undermined

However, as a college student, I gravitate towards what our leaders have to say about education, and the educational background of anyone running. We spend most of our young life in a classroom consumed with studies, and education plays a crucial role in why and how people vote. We know that not nearly enough young people are voting because they have a hard time seeing the full circle of how their vote matters. People running for office know this and tend to spend less time in their campaigns advocating for students, who could be a great asset to their campaign.

The American Federation of Teachers endorsed Valentine last month, claiming that we finally have a candidate in Missouri who values education as being the forefront of our society. In response Valentine said that education is very important for every child in this country and that teachers are at the forefront of education.

While this is a huge step and it’s very important to emphasize the role that teachers play in our society, it doesn’t necessarily engage the students as well. Students should feel empowered in knowing how our leaders are going to impact their education system, which affects their day-to-day life dramatically as we saw during the COVID-19 outbreaks.

Valentine has alluded to the fact that she thinks education is our greatest asset; she is named after the St. Louis University Nursing program as an honorable alumna who has been incredibly generous towards their nursing program and many other schools. Jane Baum, Director of Development Health Sciences at the University, claims that Valentine "genuinely cares about the mission at St. Louis University..and we are fortunate and honored that she shares her treasure, time, and talents."

We can see by her support, years of education background, and career as a nurse that she sees the value that education holds.

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Valentine is the best candidate who has the heart to fill the Missouri Senate seat, but I do wish to hear her speak even more about the value of Missouri school programs, education funding, and what her plan is in improving our education system. Mental health within our student demographic is currently reaching an all time low, and this is an issue that would draw many potential voters in. I would love to hear more about what she plans on contributing to public schools and colleges in Missouri. Again, Valentine has given her heart and beyond to schools in Missouri and it’s not unnoticed, but discussing the topic during this peak election season would add even more strength to her narrative than it already has. We can see the sincerity in her actions and generosity, but we want to hear her speak more about any innovation she will bring.

Don’t forget, you have TWO more days to register to vote, October 12th- be there and vote for Valentine!