Missouri Governor Mike Parson made a stop in Dexter Wednesday morning and answered questions about the upcoming election and the anticipated COVID-19 vaccine.
Parson first advised voters how to safely cast their ballot.
“Take your time, make sure you get there,” said Parson. “Keep the social distancing involved, just be safe to be able to do it. If you can’t do that, vote absentee.”
Parson said it is important for everyone to come out and vote.
“I think both sides will be pushing everyone to come out,” said Parson. “I think this will be a big election year. This is probably one of the most important elections we will be facing because I truly believe it is the basic fundamentals between socialism and freedom.”
Despite concerns over election results being delayed Parson was confident that Missouri voters would have state results the night of Nov. 3.
“I have got all the faith in these local election officials whether it is in this county (Stoddard County) or the counties across the state,” said Parson. “The secretary of state is very prepared for that. We have already had two election under these circumstances. I believe we will know the results here in the State of Missouri just like we would in any other election.”
Parson then addressed the anticipated COVID-19 vaccine saying a limited amount of the vaccine will first be available to front line workers possibly in December. As for other Missourians who wish to receive the vaccine, Parson said the vaccine is still several months away.
“The important thing right now is we know the virus is going to be out there so we have to go back to those fundamentals,” said Parson. “We have got to take it upon ourselves as individuals to make sure on social distancing, make sure you are not in large gatherings, (use) face masks and (practice)l personal hygiene. That is how we are going to get through this. We have got to be able to deal with the virus, we have got to be able to deal with the economy. Get businesses back up and going and we have got to make sure our schools are back up and going and keep our kids in school.”