Letter to the Editor: Rep. Burlison should honor his word by meeting with constituents

Dear editor,

As presidents of the League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri, we are disappointed that Congressman Eric Burlison has declined to meet publicly with the people he represents. Over the past several weeks, our League has reached out repeatedly by phone and email to schedule a town hall. His office has not returned our calls or messages.

This lack of response is troubling given Congressman Burlison’s remarks during a March 10, 2025, appearance on the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis Public Radio where he stated he had participated in a League of Women Voters town hall. To clarify, he has not. The only event he attended was a candidate interview conducted by the Informed Voter Coalition during the 7th Congressional race, before his election to Congress. That was not a League-sponsored town hall, nor was it held in his official capacity.

In that same St. Louis Public Radio interview, Congressman Burlison suggested that “partnering with nonpartisan civic organizations like the League of Women Voters” is a productive way for members of Congress to meet their constituents. We wholeheartedly agree. Our invitation remains open to host him for a respectful, well-organized and truly public town hall where all voices can be heard.

Our representatives work for us. Listening to constituents is not an inconvenience, it is a cornerstone of democracy. We call on Congressman Burlison to honor both his words and his responsibility to the people of Missouri’s 7th District by showing up, answering questions, and engaging directly with those he serves. Congressman, you have our number, please call us.

–Sandy Michaels and Liz Wertz, co-presidents, League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri