My name is Kathy Ellis, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and addictions counselor running for Congress in Missouri’s 8th Congressional District against Rep. Jason Smith. I’d like to tell you about Smith and puppy mills in our state.
Nearly ten years ago, Missouri voters passed a statewide proposition to increase restrictions on irresponsible dog breeding operations. The proposition gave inspectors the power to crack down on substandard treatment in puppy mills.
Treating dogs with basic care was a value that most Missourians agreed with— but not, it seems, Jason Smith.
Rep. Smith fought to gut the proposition after it passed, arguing to remove regulations for necessary veterinary care, regular food and water, and clean living conditions.
“Jason Smith, R-Mo., has been a leading opponent of animal protection legislation, and worked to dismantle a voter initiative on puppy mills, despite the fact that he had a conflict of interest since his family operates a puppy mill.” (Humane Society Legislative Fund)
Not only did Smith oppose common sense animal welfare legislation, but he did so to protect his own family’s substandard breeding operation. A Congressman who works to dismantle the vote of the people in order to benefit his own financial interests shouldn’t be representing us in Washington.
My thoughts on this issue? I support animal welfare legislation, and I don’t support corrupt public servants. Just like treating dogs well, it’s a pretty simple choice for me.
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Let’s demand better— for us and the dogs in our lives.
