Newly re-elected to a second term after carrying 25 of 26 counties, U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson, R-Cape Girardeau, has won a seat on the powerful House Appropriations Committee. The selection came this past week, as congressional Republicans made their decisions on committees.

From this perch, Emerson can be expected to continue her effective representation of the 8th District and its diverse needs. With 26 counties and at 17,000 square miles a territory larger than Switzerland, the 8th District has transportation and economic development needs that cry out for attention. When told by Emerson that a district this large has no four-lane, east-west highway, her colleagues from other states are amazed. Recent years have, however, seen solid progress on the four-laning of U.S. 60 across southern Missouri. We look for more progress on this vital artery for our state. Likewise for our thriving river ports that are showing so much promise.

Actually, it is all the citizens of Missouri who will be looking to Emerson for leadership on vital appropriations issues. As the only member on this key committee from our state, and a member of the majority to boot, she will truly occupy a major leadership role. Congratulations are in order before the really hard work begins early next year.