Amy Russell Answers Questions on Run for Circuit Clerk
The following is an interview with Amy Russell conducted by the Christian County Sun via email. Amy is currently seeking the office of Clerk of the Circuit Court for Christian County. Her opponent on the ballot is Barbie Barnett-Stillings. You can find interviews for other candidates for county office in Christian County at the August 3 Christian County Election Central Resource. You can find more info from Amy on her campaign website.
SUN: Amy, why are you running for Clerk of the Circuit Court?
Amy: The Clerk of the Circuit Court is the heart of the court system in any judicial circuit. The clerk is the focal point for all court cases – civil and criminal. Therefore, the clerk’s office has to operate in an efficient and timely manner to ensure that an already over-burdened court system will not falter. The civil and criminal court system depends heavily on the Clerk’s Office. Having served as a Deputy Court Clerk for the past four years has given me the hands on experience to immediately assume the responsibility of Christian County Circuit Clerk.
SUN: Now that we know why you’re running, why are you running as a Republican?
Amy: The Clerk of the Circuit Court is really a non-partisan position. The courts are a vital part of the lives of all Christian County residents. The Republican party’s conservative values and hard work are important to me. I believe the voters will recognize my abilities and how they align with their core beliefs.
SUN: On your website, among other experience listed, you state you’re the only candidate with experience in the Circuit Clerk’s office. How do you think your experience has prepared you for the role of Clerk for the Circuit Court?
Amy: Currently, I work with each judicial segment of the Circuit. That includes handling civil and criminal cases from the moment they enter the office from the public and court officers. I know how the office functions, the priorities of the judicial system and the components the residents of Christian County depend upon. The Clerk’s office is so vital to the Christian County court system, that if performance falters, the impact will be felt by the entire judicial system. My experience in this office will allow the court system to run without interruption.
SUN: What would you change about the way the Clerk’s office is run? How would things look differently if you are elected? Or would you continue to keep things the same?
SUN: From talking with people around Christian County, what do you think are the most important issues to people in this county, both in this race & longer term?
SUN: Christian County has been growing & changing quickly for several years. What is your vision for the future of the county as it continues to grow & change?
Amy: I see Christian County continuing to grow. The economy has been tough on the county, there’s no disputing that fact. But, Christian County residents are resilient. The value of living in Christian County continues to be witnessed by the state and prospective businesses, the county is going to continue down the road of prosperity.
SUN: Why should Christian County voters cast their ballot for you?
Amy: No amount of good intention can be a substitute for experience. And I want voters to know that the position of Clerk of the Circuit Court does not allow for a learning curve. The job is a hands-on working position, not just an administrative role. The Christian County Circuit Clerk’s office is the most understaffed in the state. The Clerk must be willing and able to step into the role of any position in the Circuit Clerk’s office. I have done that in my current position as Deputy Circuit Clerk and will continue to do that if elected. I personally know the importance of the judicial system to Christian County, and will work to maintain that integrity to the voters.
Amy – You are the perfect candidate to fill the position of Circut Clerk Your interview reflected your inner beauty; experience, moral standards and integrity.