Jeff Harris Meets The Press

DON'T CALL ME, I'LL CALL YOU

The Democratic candidate for Attorney General calls for banning robo-calls by political campaigns but won't rule out using them himself during this campaign

"IT'S NOTHING PERSONAL"

Harris details why he's been so tough on rival Sen. Chris Koster, who switched parties last summer. He calls his disagreement with Koster "philosophical," not personal. Harris then lists his differences on the Photo I.D. bill, local control of CAFOs and the Medicaid cuts. "There wasn't a single Democrat in the House under my leadership who voted for those cuts. If we can't stand up against the Medicaid cuts, then shame on us," Harris said.

In addition, Harris won't touch rival Rep. Margaret Donnelly. When asked about differences with her, he quickly points to experience and leadership, but steers clear of specifics.

WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER?

When asked about fundraising and polls, Harris doesn't put too much stock in either. He makes it clear he is aiming to play well in southwest Missouri, because he's been here, and he'll be back.

OVERALL:

Harris was focused and forceful. While visibly a bit road-weary when he arrived, he quickly proved he was ready for a fight and armed with answers. He gets points just for just showing up to an area that's been mostly overlooked by the candidates for Attorney General. Neither Donnelly nor Koster have held similar press availabilities here yet, and Harris did indeed lay out a host of specifics. Southwest Missouri may not have a real impact on this primary, but if it does, Harris looks to have an edge down in the Ozarks.