Friday, January 9th, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Topeka, Kans. -- J.R. Claeys visited 14 cities in Kansas this week, touring businesses, schools and local chambers of commerce. Claeys is seeking the Republican nomination for Kansas Secretary of State. He spent time this week in Pittsburg, Independence, Manhattan, Newton, McPherson, Salina, Hays, Great Bend, Dodge City, Liberal, Elkhart, Rolla, Hugoton, and Garden City.

"I am learning about the challenges our communities face every day," said Claeys. "Kansas is diverse and the issues effecting Pittsburg are not the same as those in Garden City or Manhattan."

Claeys is talking to chambers, businesses and schools about business development issues, paperwork reduction, civic engagement and keeping our elections free and fair through a state-wide Voter ID program.

"Voter ID can be implemented responsibly to assure all Kansans eligible to vote can do so," said Claeys. "A statewide Voter ID program will give Kansans confidence that their vote is secure."

Claeys visited the APAC-Kansas plant in Hays on Friday to wrap up visits for the week. APAC-Kansas is a paving contractor with operations across Kansas experiencing a need for qualified workers.

"There are jobs out here," said Claeys. "Our state has good paying jobs and areas with unemployment under three percent. We need to solve the problem of housing shortages and workforce development, but there is a lot of good news out west. Other areas are seeing the unemployment numbers rise and housing prices fall. We need to address all of these issues."

Claeys continues his visits with businesses and chambers next week and through March. Claeys is seeking the position being vacated by Ron Thornburgh, who is widely expected to run for governor.

LINK: Invite J.R. to speak to your group