Four years ago, more than 70 percent of Missourians voted to preserve traditional marriage and I am proud to say that I was one of the measure's most vocal supporters. Unfortunately, the attack on America's families continues outside the Show Me State. The latest travesty came yesterday when the California Supreme Court quashed a ban on gay marriage that "effectively leaves same-sex couples in America's most populous state free to tie the knot."

I made it very clear this morning to members of the state and national media that Barack Obama is wrong for Missourians and wrong for our country. As the New York Times quoted me today as saying, if selected by Democrats as their nominee, then Barack Obama will be "the HARDEST LEFT candidate ever nominated for president of the United States."

Dear Friends:

We had some good news and bad news this week as the Legislature enters the final week of session. The good news for all of us is that the Legislature passed a bill to help bring the Bombardier aircraft plant to the Kansas City area. The Canadian aircraft maker would bring thousands of good paying jobs to Missouri and create the kind of economic development that has helped our state grow and prosper the last four years under Republican leadership.

There were some disturbing developments last week regarding proposed funding cuts for a vital Missouri seniors program, but I want you to know that as Missouri’s Senior Advocate I am working hard to restore this funding. But I need your help today.

Over the past two weeks, Mother Nature has been tough on Missouri and her families. She has given us everything she had through storms and floods.

I’ve seen the destruction first hand as I’ve traveled the state visiting with homeowners, small-businessmen and women, and others whose lives have been turned upside down by the rains and flooding.

Despite Mother Nature and her attempt to thwart the spirit of Missourians, we have fought back and provided relief to those in need. We did so as a team.

Last week, Missouri lost one of the finest civil servants that we have ever known.

My friend, Office of Administration Commissioner Michael Keathley, lost his battle to cancer on Wednesday.

Six years ago, as President Pro Tem, I brought Mike to Jefferson City to work for the State Senate.

His dedication to this great state and citizens across Missouri was unparalleled. Every citizen and taxpayer owes him a debt of gratitude for the efficient savings he enacted as Commissioner of Administration.

Last night in St. Louis, I had the opportunity to spend time with our Republican nominee for President, Senator John McCain.

Sen. McCain’s selfless dedication and service to this country over many decades is the foundation that patriotism is built upon and I was honored to visit with him about the challenges we face in Missouri.

Last night Sen. McCain shared his plans for America ’s economy, providing available and affordable healthcare, and a continued mission to defend America from enemies at home and abroad.

This week I had the opportunity as Chairman of the Missouri Tourism Commission to share with members of the state legislature the Annual Tourism Report for 2007, and the outlook for 2008.

I was joined by Division of Tourism Director Blaine Luetkemeyer as we recounted 2007 as one of the most successful years ever in Missouri state tourism.

One of the greatest aspects of serving as your Lieutenant Governor is being a friend and advocate for Missouri seniors. Let me share with you a recent example of how rewarding this responsibility can be.

This past Wednesday was Senior Advocacy Day at the Capitol in Jefferson City. Dozens of Missouri’s older Americans traveled to the capital to visit with legislators.

As Lt. Governor and President Pro Tem I have brought fundamental change to state government. I have served as a change agent my entire career and look forward to continuing my positive leadership.

Missourians deserve a strong economy to create new higher paying jobs, a world class education, and affordable and accessible health care.

I am the right person to deliver the positive change Missourians deserve.

I am heartened by the outpouring of support and I will formally announce my plans for Governor in the coming weeks.