Chuck Purgason Discusses His Future Plans, Will Back Cunningham for Party Chair, May Run for Congress
Staff Reports
Caufield, MO – One of the most conservative members of the General Assembly in the past generation leaves public life next week, and is unsure if he will continue
his career in public service or in what capacity he would serve. “I have been so busy this year from session, to the elections, then the holidays, and this is the busiest time of year for our company that I really haven’t given enough thought as to what I will do next”, said Purgason.
One position he has ruled out is running for republican state party chairman, “I believe we need a real change at the state party, but I believe we real conservatives have to stick together to win so I have chosen to step aside”, said Purgason.
There were several rumors since the party’s disappointing showing in statewide elections last month that Purgson would run as a conservative alternative to the existing party leadership. However, Purgason indicated he plans to support fellow Senator Jane Cunningham. “I really thought about running myself, but in the end I decided to support Senator Cunningham. So many people talk about being conservative, but she has actually walked the walk. She is tested, and the party obviously needs to be ran by a true tested conservative.”
Purgason indicated he was unhappy that in the past the party has attempted to get involved in primaries and tell the voters what to do, and he supports many of the changes Cunningham has indicated she would bring about. “I think the people employed by the party should respect the intentions of the people in the party not try to tell the primary voters what to do”, said Purgason.
One portion of Cunningham’s platform that appealed to Purgason was her stated intention not to keep Lloyd Smith on as Executive Director of the party. “I completely support her decision to make a change there. He needs to go, the party needs change and only a real tested conservative can come in and do what needs to be done. I also am not fond of the person making a high wage to run the party running for congress while working there”, said Purgason.
While he seems intent on not running for state party chairman Purgason hasn’t closed the door on running for Congress. “I really haven’t made my mind up, but I am taking the next few days to decide, and I will have an announcement to make just after the first of the year. It is so important that we have a true conservative representing us in congress. Not just someone who talks like a conservative and then when they are put in the fire settles or goes along to get along, but a true conservative who isn’t afraid to make a few people mad to stand up for their principles”, said Purgason.
When asked who he would be inclined to support if he chooses not to run Purgason expressed some support for another fellow Senator Jason Crowell. “If I were to choose not to run I want to support someone who is truly tested and he certainly has been. In truth, he may be one of the only ones running who has actually taken a tough vote to cut the size of government. It was on a bill I was heavily involved with and I can tell you it wasn’t easy to stick in and cast that one”, concluded Purgason.