Shereka Barnes
DemocraticQ1 In their 2024–2025 report, the Missouri Office of Rural Health reported that 42% of counties in MO do not have a hospital. What policies, if any, do you plan to implement to address access to health care, primarily in rural areas?
“Access to quality healthcare should not depend on your ZIP code. As someone who works in healthcare and relied on Medicaid as a single mother when my family needed it most, I know firsthand how essential affordable, accessible care is for Missouri families. With 42% of Missouri counties lacking a hospital, we mStatet take meaningful action to improve healthcare access, especially in rural communities.”
Q2 The Missouri Department of Agriculture has reported that Agriculture and related industries have contributed 93.7 billion dollars in economic output and 456,618 jobs to Missouri in 2021. Would you continue to develop and support agtech business in Missouri as well as the education and scientific training for Missourians to contribute to this industry? Why or why not?
“Yes. Agriculture is one of Missouri’s strongest economic drivers, and as the next State Senator for District 34, I recognize that part of my district is rural and depends on a thriving agricultural economy. Supporting agriculture means supporting jobs, local bStateinesses, family farms, and the long-term success of our communities.”
Q3 America has a growing AI industry, supporting cutting-edge innovation but raising issues of resource use, privacy, and economics. In your opinion, what are the costs and benefits of new data center construction in Missouri and how would your policies accomplish a balance between them?
“Artificial intelligence and data centers can bring good-paying jobs, new investment, and economic growth to Missouri. However, those benefits mStatet be balanced with the impact on local communities, including energy demand, water Statee, land Statee, privacy, and infrastructure.”
Q4 If elected, in what capacities would you refer to scientists when you are deciding how to vote on a policy?
“Yes. I believe effective public policy should be grounded in credible evidence and informed by experts in the field. As a legislator, I will trStatet and rely on scientists, researchers, healthcare professionals, educators, economists, and other subject matter experts to help evaluate the potential impacts of proposed legislation.”
Q5 What are your opinions on the current state of science literacy, and how could K-12 education standards be adapted to improve the public understanding of and relationship building in science?
“Science literacy is essential to preparing students for college, careers, and informed citizenship. As a former educator and current member of the Park Hill Board of Education, I believe Missouri’s students deserve a strong, evidence-based science education that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.”