Conservatives Grumbling About Rep. Denison

Some conservative Republicans are upset with Rep. Charlie Denison over a recent vote on a tax credit bill aimed at helping struggling students in St. Louis and Kansas City.

The fallout from this and other votes is so strong among conservatives that the KY3 Political Notebook has learned of at least two Republicans already gearing up for a possible primary challenge to Denison.

Rep. Denison voted "no" on House Bill 808, which would have established a tax credit program for scholarships. The proposal failed in the House. Opponents said the program would take money away from other proven programs that have closed the achievement gap in schools.

But conservatives like Larry Russell of the Missouri Republican Assembly believe the tax credit vote separates the "wheat from the chaff."

"We're very disappointed with Charlie on this," Russell said, referring to members of the MRA. "He's not voting conservative. We're hoping Charlie understands his misstep," he added.

Denison said the reason he voted against the tax credit bill is because the 2.5 grade point average set for students to qualify was too high. "I made a deal the the Governor and the Speaker and said if they bring it down from 2.5 to 2.0, it would be something I could support," Rep. Denison said.

"Last time I checked 2.5 was passing, and this is meant to help with failing students. At 2.0, this would get to a larger number of children failing in the school system," he added.

"Some people were convinced this is the best way to help these kids. I just happen to disagree," Rep. Denison said. "I thought it was a conservative vote, I thought it was saving taxpayers money."

But Russell said there's a bigger pattern with Denison that has conservatives grumbling. "There's also a lack of communication he's been giving us. There's widespread concern in the group about Charlie, and I'm a little surprised. I'm not happy to say that," Russell said.

Russell said Denison's previous vote for a motorcycle helmet law also upset conservatives in his group who strongly believe in individual rights.

"He's creating a little hardship for other members of the caucus, but he still has a chance to rectify himself," Russell said. "But it's his second term and he still hasn't come back with any chairmanships or anything, that's a concern. What could follow is a parting of the ways," he added.

"It's very possible he'll have a primary challenge. There's two people thinking about it. One could be very credible," said Russell.