Although he won't crow about it, Ashcroft recognizes the slot as a post of privilege as well as responsibility. Not only does the designation go to a select few, but usually only the most veteran senators get the call. Ashcroft only came to the Senate in 1995, so his has been a swift ascension to the chamber's upper echelons. Serving as lieutenants to the majority leader, Ashcroft and his colleagues will have to extinguish political fires on the Republican side of the aisle and otherwise help the GOP leader get his way, mainly by whipping up votes. Ashcroft said the proliferation of methamphetamine laboratories in Missouri may come up before the committee next year.
Bond also wants to help escort Missouri businesses into the ''exploding'' global marketplace.
Although he will no longer have a seat on the Senate Banking Committee, Bond will remain a member of the all-important Budget Committee, where the quest for a balanced budget is foremost on the agenda. Bond thinks the mood and timing are ripe this time for a balance budget amendment. The Springfield News-Leader, a Gannett company. Use of this site signifies your agreement to the Terms of Service .