Democrat Jamie Johnson, the newly-elected state representative for recently-redrawn House District 12, has made history for her win – as the first representative for the new house district and as Platte County’s first Black state representative.
Johnson
Johnson credits dedicated community members, the Missouri House Democratic Campaign Committee (HDCC), and regional labor union locals for her historic win this past Tuesday.
“I am endlessly grateful for volunteers from UAW 249, Missouri AFL-CIO, Kansas City Firefighters, LiUNA, Teamsters and so many others for dedicating their time, effort, and resources to help reshape what representation looks like in Platte County and beyond” Johnson said
More than 14,000 voters cast their ballots in the race between Rep. Johnson and Republican and Parkville businessman Tom Hutsler, and Johnson commented that she was “immensely proud” of how many Platte County citizens came out to vote and be active participants in democracy.
“I’m especially proud of the young people, some of which contacted me directly and said what can we do to help?” she said.
When asked about making history as Platte County’s first black representative, Johnson said “I am deeply proud and so grateful that my fellow citizens elected me to hold this honor and distinction. Representation matters. It also makes me excited, because making this kind of history helps us all create a better future, and that’s what I’m ready to do.”
In looking forward, Johnson said she was eager to get to work in the new legislative session in January.
“My successful election shows that, to the people of my district, integrity matters just as much as common-sense governance.” She added, “Though this election cycle may be over, the work is really just beginning. We must keep this momentum going in Platte County to restore balance in government. I’m excited to get to work for my district on the things I was elected to accomplish.”
Johnson ran on a platform of funding public education, securing affordable and responsive healthcare, and supporting the veteran community. She said she will fight to defend workers’ rights, voters’ rights and for lawful, safe gun ownership.