Paul Gatewood runs for House District 10, focuses on community giveback

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Paul Gatewood, the Republican candidate for Missouri House District 10, said his motto has always been giving back to the community for everything it gives him and others. 

He’s tried to do that by getting involved with several different organizations.  

As he took on more responsibilities and moved into leadership roles, he found himself working more closely with politicians, traveling to Jefferson City and asking lawmakers for help with issues affecting the community.  

“Whether it has to do with laws or if it has to do with finances or whatever. So for many years I have thought about doing this, and now the timing's is right,” he said.  

Gatewood said running for office has also meant stepping back from some of the other things he’s involved in since his campaign is keeping him busy.  

He believes it’s important to get out into the community and actually talk to people. He said that without hearing directly from residents, it’s difficult to know what needs to change.  

“People will tell you what their concerns are, so I am running on safe neighborhoods, affordable housing and great school districts,” he added.  

Gatewood is also a father of eight and said two of his children have left the St. Joseph community because they didn’t feel the area offered those priorities. 

He hopes to help change that — and, in the long run, maybe even give his children a reason to come back and stay close to home.  

“If we have those things like jobs, great school districts, then kids may think this place has nice housing, and the school district is good, and maybe they would stay,” he said.  

Safety is another big priority for Gatewood. He said he wants to make neighborhoods safer while continuing to support St. Joseph’s police department and other first responders. 

He also wants to support the school district. Gatewood said he believes educators are already doing good work but could accomplish even more for students with additional support.  

“I am not opposed to any type of school, whether it's public or private. I raised my kids in public schools, and one reason was that I couldn’t afford private school for all eight kids,” he joked.  

As the upcoming election approaches, Gatewood said he hopes voters will consider him because of his commitment to the community. 

He said he has spent years representing and helping people from all walks of life, including civilians, police officers and veterans.  

“Like I said, it is not a job that I get paid for; it's because I care, and they know that’s why people come to me,” he added.  

If elected and he heads to Jefferson City, Gatewood said he wants to continue listening to the people he represents.  

He believes staying connected with voters is key to understanding the issues in his district and knowing how he can best serve the community. 

Gatewood is running against his Democratic opponent, LaTonya Williams. Both candidates are looking to take over for Republican Bill Falkner, who termed out.