Beginning the 100th General Assembly
The start of the 2019 legislative session signals the beginning of my second term in the Missouri Senate. I am grateful for the trust and confidence that each of you have placed in me, and I promise to daily stand up and fight for your values and beliefs in the Missouri Senate.
The first day of the legislative session is filled with numerous ceremonies intended to remind us of the solemn traditions of the Missouri Senate. One of the highlights of the first day for me was taking the oath of office. As I raised my right hand, I was filled with a sense of duty and responsibility. The moment served as a reminder of the enormous trust that each of you placed in me. This office is bigger than any one person. In the Missouri Senate, the district we represent adorns our desks — not our names. This serves as a daily reminder that each of us are here to serve our constituents; we are not here for our own gain.
Following the day’s legislative activities, lawmakers and their guests gathered in the State Capitol for the annual Legislative Ball. This event provides an excellent opportunity for camaraderie and fellowship between legislators and their guests. The evening began with the Grand March. During the march, each legislator’s name is announced as they proceed down the rotunda’s grand staircase with their families. This tradition is a great way to introduce newly elected lawmakers to the public and recognize returning members for their continued dedication to serving our state. I was proud to be joined by my son, Thomas Riddle, and my father-in-law, Tom Riddle, during the evening’s events.
While Wednesday proved to be a long day, I am excited to begin the 2019 legislative session. I am committed to moving our state forward through conservative, commonsense principals. I understand that we won’t agree on every issue; however, I believe each of us are committed to improving our schools, creating good-paying jobs and making each of our communities a safer place for all Missourians. We certainly have much to do, but I am confident that by the end of the legislative session, we will have passed numerous pieces of legislation that will make our state a better place to live, work and raise a family.
It is an honor and a privilege to be your State Senator, and my door is always open to your concerns, questions or comments. Please feel free to contact me at (573) 751-2757 or visit my web page at www.senate.mo.gov/riddle.