JEFFERSON CITY - Matt
Blunt today called on Claire McCaskill to explain why she voted against a
measure that would have provided millions of dollars in lottery money to
help boost funding for Missouri school children.

As a state representative in 1985, McCaskill joined
fellow Democrats in voting against a proposal that would have used portions
of the proceeds from the state lottery to help strengthen Missouri?s public
schools by providing money critical to the education of students statewide.

"Claire McCaskill needs to
explain how she was able to make the unconscionable decision to vote against
critical funding for Missouri school children," said Paul Sloca,
communications director for the Missouri Republican Party.
"Matt Blunt has made it clear that he would never
withhold money from education, but it appears Claire McCaskill can?t make
such a guarantee. Her record proves that."

Along with stable funding for education, Blunt has
pledged to make sure money for schools is used to educate students rather
than pad school bureaucracies. The Republican candidate for governor also
supports increasing salaries for teachers while ensuring a quality education
for all students.

"The Missouri Democrat Party has
attempted to distort both Matt Blunt?s unblemished record of support for
public education and his courage to vote against massive appropriations
bills that were unsustainable," Sloca said.
"Matt Blunt?s first priority as governor will be the education of our
children."