Your voter guide to Wichita-area races in the Kansas Legislature

With every seat in the Kansas Legislature up for election in 2024, Wichita-area races could prove pivotal in determining the balance of power in Topeka.

Currently, Republicans hold veto-proof majorities in both chambers but Democrats could break those supermajorities by winning back three additional seats in the Senate and two in the House.

Some candidates are running unopposed in the primary election, but there are seven competitive contests in the Wichita area, including six Republican primaries and one Democratic primary.

The advance voting by mail process has begun, and advance in-person voting will get underway Monday, July 22, at the Sedgwick County Election Office in the historic courthouse at 510 N. Main.

To help readers familiarize themselves with the candidates, The Eagle sent a questionnaire asking each to share some biographical details about themselves and to respond to a series of questions about their priorities and some of the pressing issues that will likely come before the Legislature. Candidate responses have only been edited stylistically for clarity.

Kansas Senate District 26 Republican Primary

Chase Blasi

Age: 30

Position: Senator

Past position: Colwich City Council

Education: Bachelor’s from Newman University

Phone: No response provided

Email: senatorblasi@gmail.com

Website: chaseblasi.com

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

Results matter. In my two years in office, I’ve introduced and carried numerous pieces of legislation across the finish line. Childcare, expanded access to adoption, additional funding for the intellectual and developmental disability population, tax cuts, and more. We need a leader who listens and gets things done.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

My overall focus is to ensure Kansas remains a great place to raise a family, start a business, and retire. I remain focused on lowering the tax burden on Kansans, investing in the right programs to benefit our state such as education and workforce development, and cut wasteful spending. A special focus of mine in the legislature has been advocating for the intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) community as well as adoption.

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

Yes, the Legislature should make additional cuts next session by looking at them all. I was proud to vote to end the tax on social security and cut the state portion on property taxes. Food sales goes away January 1.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

I voted to fully fund K-12 schools every time I had the chance. This year we allocated an additional $75M to special education and continue to prioritize early childhood learning. A coalition of young legislators including myself attempted to roll back the red tape that is hurting our childcare system but was ultimately stopped by the governor’s veto. We should prioritize early learning.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

Anytime we take Kansans from private insurance to government healthcare the result is worse care, less options, and poorer reimbursement for services to our hospitals. Also at a time our nation is spending trillions in deficit, adding tens of thousands of people to a government program places that debt on future generations. That is irresponsible.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

Life from the unborn to natural death should be respected and protected.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

As long as our healthcare community and law enforcement warn of the deadly consequences in other states such as Oklahoma and Colorado, Kansas should avoid legalization.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

Elections in Kansas are secure and accurate thanks to safeguards put in place by the legislature. Showing your ID is one example of common sense legislation passed into law.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

My record shows I’m willing to work with anyone who is willing to solve problems. Leaders bring people together to discuss the hard issues. Civil discourse and respect is so important for our Republic to remain strong. I’ve worked on childcare reform and a sales tax exemption for the Exploration Place Playscape that required a bipartisan coalition.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

I am very engaged with my constituents. I am best reached by e-mail. I always appreciate constituents sharing their thoughts on the hundreds of bills before the legislature.

J.C. Moore

Age: No response provided

Position: Retired teacher

Past position: Professor of chemistry at Newman University and at Friends University, Representative for District 93

Education: Ph.D. in chemistry from Kansas State University

Phone: 316-558-7848

Email: mooreforkansas@gmail.com

Website: JCMooreforKansas.org

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

l grew up on a farm and oil lease in rural Oklahoma. I received a doctorate from KSU, and taught physics and chemistry at Newman University and Friends University where I served at times as department chair, division chair, faculty president, and as chairman of pre-med, curriculum, and faculty evaluation committees. I have served as a YMCA volunteer, adult 4-H leader, cosponsor of a Young Republican chapter, and as a state representative. I have three children and nine grandchildren, and am committed to making sure Kansas remains a great place for my grandchildren, yours, and all future generations.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

Education funding is probably the most important issue for my constituents. We must fund our schools for excellence, not just adequacy, and see that special education and early childhood education are fully funded. We should see that students who attend college are not overly burdened with student debt. We could help with that by making the first two years of college and technical school tuition-free.

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

Yes. The legislature should lower property taxes. The Kansas government is funded by income taxes, sales taxes, and property taxes. If the state Is to have a balanced budget, the cut in property taxes should be made up for by increasing the income tax rate in the highest tax brackets.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

A school bus driver told me that almost every day someone passes him while letting off students with his stop sign out and flashers on. Currently, the offenders can only be ticketed if an officer observes them. School bus drivers, or anyone nearby, should be able to report the dangerous behavior and have it investigated. Energy costs are among the largest items in school budgets. Maize South in Wichita has greatly cut energy costs by installing solar panels on two buildings. The legislature could help by establishing a fund to purchase panels, to be paid back from energy savings. The legislature should also mandate more favorable net energy metering (NEM) agreements, which establish the price of backup electricity and the reimbursement rate for excess energy produced.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

Yes. There are about 150,000 working Kansans who earn too much to be on Medicaid but too little to qualify for the affordable care act. Expanding Medicaid would provide them with health insurance. This would provide for regular medical care, reduce the cost of hospital emergency room visits, and bring about $800 million a year into Kansas. So far, Kansas has lost about $7 billion by not expanding Medicaid. Though the money would go into the healthcare system, it would circulate throughout the state’s economy. We would have healthier children and workers and reduce the risk of spreading communicable diseases. Your health depends on the health of everyone you come in contact with.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

When I was in the legislature, l voted to put the Value Them Both Amendment on the ballot. It was defeated by a large majority of the votes cast and the legislature should respect the decision of the voters. The confidentiality and privacy of the doctor-patient relationship and of medical records should be honored. The legislature could certainly help with the expenses associated with women’s reproductive healthcare. Policies such as free birth control and Expanded Medicaid would help many women with the costs.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

I am in favor of legalizing medical marijuana. It is been shown to reduce seizures in children and to relieve pain effectively. It is much less expensive and less addicting than opioids. I think we should decriminalize recreational marijuana and release from prison those convicted of using or possessing marijuana.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

Scott Schwab testified that our elections are secure and the counting is accurate. I would trust his opinion as he should know. The legislature should try to see that every citizen is able to register and vote. We should extend the grace period for mail ballots and repeal laws that discourage citizen groups from conducting ballot registration events. The legislature should institute same-day registration and voting for citizens submitting proper proof of residency.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

Yes, I am willing to work across the aisle on any issue that would be beneficial to Kansas. There are many informal gatherings in Topeka which allows interaction with Democrats and a chance to get to know them. The key is to find people with similar legislative interests, discuss what progress could be made on the issues, and to possibly cosponsor the legislation.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

I plan to keep my constituents informed about what committees I am on, what issues come before the committees, and what recommendations the committee makes. I will summarize the major laws considered by the legislature as a whole and what action was taken on them. I will put that information on my website and my Facebook page, and in a newsletter. Many organizations have legislative forums, and I plan to attend as many of those as is practical.

Kansas Senate District 34 Republican Primary

Bob Fee

Age: 59

Position: President, Fee Insurance Group Inc.

Past position: Been with Fee Insurance Group for 37 years. I did serve for 8 years on the Willowbrook City Council.

Education: B.A. Political Science University of Kansas, 1987

Phone: 620-960-6862

Email: info@kansansforfee.com

Website: www.kansansforfee.com

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

I have worked in business and as a business owner right here in South Central Kansas for 37 years. Our business gives back to the community in a variety of ways, and over those years I’ve served on countless community boards and committees. I served as President of our industry association at the state level (KAIA) and served as Chairman of our national association (IIABA). This service has given me a great perspective on working with people, all different types of people, and getting things done. My vision is for Kansas to be competitive when it comes to taxes, to strive to have the best K-12 educational system for teaching our children (actual teaching of primary subjects), and to live up to the values of our founders and be a truly wonderful State.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

Property Taxes. We have got to figure out how to decrease the State’s reliance on property tax as that is what our local units of government depend on. I don’t have an answer, but we need to work together to come up with potential solutions.

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

We should see what this year’s tax cuts do to our revenues, but property taxes need to be lowered at the State level.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

We should work to focus on educating our children first, as I said above, that includes Reading, English, Math, Science, Social Studies and History. We must resolve together that we want Kansas schools to be the best in the nation. This will not only help our future generations, it will be an economic driver for our State. If we need to look at what other States have done to become more efficient and provide a higher caliber of education, then I am all for that including education savings accounts or some form of voucher if that spurs on better educational outcomes.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

No. Look at the states that have, in particular Indiana. They started this year with nearly a $1 billion shortfall. Nationally the states that expanded Medicaid have driven costs up by 64% more than predicted. The people that are getting cuts include the elderly and children, as Medicaid reimburses them at a lower amount than the expanded population. We should also be concerned about a Federal Government that can no longer match at 90% - this could easily become another unfunded mandate.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

We should work with all sides to come up with a common sense time when abortions in Kansas are no longer permitted. This is something I believe the majority of Kansans can agree upon. Abortion is the taking of a human life. I would think we could find some common ground somewhere. That would be my goal.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

No.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

I believe they are right now. Elections should be held in very high regard. IDs are a must, voting machines need to be fully secure or not used, and late ballots should never be counted. We should restrict who and why someone can use a mail-in ballot and ballot harvesting should be outlawed.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

Yes for sure. In all my years of working with people, I don’t generally ask them what party they are. We need to be Kansans first and work toward using our common sense to promote what is best for the majority of Kansans. I will work to do that.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

I am very available and will plan to attend small group meetings, forums, discussions or take phone calls. Having worked my entire career with people, this will just be an extension of that.

Michael Murphy

Murphy has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.

Kansas House District 77 Republican Primary

Douglas Law

Age: 66

Position: Augusta USD 402 Board of Education Member

Past position: Retired Augusta USD 402 teacher, coach and administrator. Former trustee at Butler Community College.

Education: MS in Education, Emporia State University

Phone: 316-350-7827

Email: douglaw4ksleg@gmail.com

Website: votedouglaw.com

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

I am the moderate choice in this election. Billionaires and far-right think tanks have too much influence on the legislative process in Topeka. I believe the level of gridlock can be lessened by listening, working together, and using common sense for the common good.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

Fully funding public education; to include special education; and ensuring that public funds go to public schools gives students equal access to a quality education. Young people are our most valuable resource!

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

I support tax policy that continues the state’s economic growth while making meaningful and responsible tax cuts benefiting all Kansans. The rapid increase in property valuation has generally resulted in higher property taxes. Providing property tax relief without disrupting the quality of the services provided by each taxing entity is the challenge to be addressed in the next legislative session.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

Laws that are mindful of local control and respectful of the duties and responsibilities of the Kansas State Board of Education and the Kansas Department of Education.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

Medicaid expansion will offer healthcare access to thousands of additional Kansans by lowering costs, supporting hospitals, and contributing to healthier families and communities. The expanded Medicaid program covers a specific group who make too much to qualify for the traditional program yet cannot afford to purchase marketplace coverage. Kansans’ tax dollars have gone to support Medicaid expansion in other states. We need to keep those dollars in Kansas for the benefit of our citizens.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

The Kansas Supreme Court has ruled and recently affirmed that the Kansas Constitution “protects a fundamental right to personal autonomy, which includes a pregnant person’s right to terminate a pregnancy.” In 2022, Kansas voters rejected a constitutional amendment that would have denied this right. It seems reasonable to expect the Legislature to operate within the framework of state law.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

All but 12 states have legalized medical marijuana. The US Drug Enforcement Administration has announced its plans to reschedule marijuana as a less dangerous drug. If approved by the Department of Justice, it would also officially recognize marijuana’s medical benefits. The vast majority of Kansans support legalization. The Kansas House has passed medical cannabis legislation in the recent past, but the Senate has failed to act. I would be supportive of medicinal marijuana legislation.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

Kansas elections are secure and accurate and any laws that attempt to limit access by registered voters must be carefully scrutinized.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

I am more than willing to work across the aisle and would encourage others to enter into dialog to find solutions to the issues that come before us. Let’s find common ground and resolve conflicts along the way. Legislation hastily thrown together in the eleventh hour of the last day of the session rarely yields positive results.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

I’ve worked professionally in positions of public trust. I’m willing to listen and to learn. I will make myself available to constituents of the 77th District and do my very best to represent their best interests.

Kristey Williams

Age: 53

Position: Representative

Past position: Mayor of Augusta - 2007-2014, State Representative - 2015-present

Education: BSEd, MSEd - University of Kansas

Phone: 316-775-1440

Email: kristeywilliams@yahoo.com

Website: www.kristeywilliamshouse.com

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

My experience as a teacher, mother, mayor, small business owner, and a chairwoman shows my ability and dedication to building community. Understanding how to weave policy and process to benefit people is an essential requirement for effectively working in the Legislature. My time as Majority Caucus Chair, chairwoman for the past eight years, and my involvement with important committees such as appropriations, commerce, tax, and education help illustrate the depth of my background that best assists my constituents. When voters trust me to guard their freedoms, pocketbooks, and priorities -- it compels me to confidently and consistently represent the 77th District with my full heart, mind, and work ethic. I love serving the people of the 77th District.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

Property tax is the number one issue of concern I consistently hear from my voters. In the last session alone, I’ve voted seven times for tax relief including property tax. Property tax increases are pricing young families and seniors out of their homes, or even keeping them out of the home-buying market. We can’t let this be the norm. We must stop the property tax increases.

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

Yes -- on property taxes. We’ve successfully expedited the end to food sales tax and reduced income tax from three tiers to two. The next step: more property tax reductions.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

We should continue to Constitutionally fund schools and look for ways to incentivize improved student achievement. With one-third of our students’ reading and math scores below grade level, we need to continue to focus on improvement. I’d like a greater emphasis on a classical education that ensures all kids can read, write, and confidently compute math problems in real-world situations. Ensuring all students have success and overcome whatever challenges encountered, from dyslexia to anxiety, will require all hands on deck. Let’s consider diverse ways to reach diverse students. More educational freedom, especially for low-income and struggling students, will help kids. Parents should be equipped to help their children get the best education, in the best environment, that ensures success.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

The Legislature has increased Medicaid reimbursement rates by over $300 million in our most recent budgets -- which means that more children, disabled, and elderly Kansans will have more access to healthcare. There are important reasons expansion to able-bodied individuals not required to work is not good for low-income children, elderly, and disabled. The compassionate answer is to maintain and improve our safety net for those who cannot provide healthcare through any other means and need support. In fact, we did expand coverage to the I/DD (intellectually disabled) and P/DD (physically disabled) communities this year by $750 million. The Legislature has enhanced Medicaid every year through additional services, higher reimbursement rates, and more coverage to care for Kansans.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

I am pro-life and want the very best for mother and child. It is my hope and prayer that life will be chosen by those who face challenges. I have voted in favor of providing funding for support services to mothers in need, as well as provide more education to mothers who are considering abortion. More education, more resources, more support services, and more love and kindness can go a long way to promote a culture of life.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

I am opposed to the legalization of recreational marijuana. The federal government classifies marijuana as a “Schedule I drug with a high potential for abuse and little to no medical benefit.” Therefore, State actions to legalize would be contrary to existing law. In some cases, medical marijuana may be an option rather than opioids for pain relief for those who live with chronic illnesses. Thoughtfully considering the pros and cons, with the most recent data and reviews, would be needed before making a final analysis on any legalization.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

I vote in favor of measures that build voter trust and confidence. Ensuring each person has one vote and that vote is accurately recorded is important to both me and my voters. Upholding our Constitution requires safe and secure elections, therefore, I will always vote to improve and protect our election process.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

I have good friends on both sides of the aisle and believe it’s important to understand the pros and cons of every issue. Foundational issues are not places for compromise; however, many issues provide much room to collaborate and compromise. Regardless, civil discourse with respect for others, especially those with contrary views, is imperative. We are all friends, neighbors, or colleagues. America is a place of diverse ideas and ideals and we should allow individuals to freely express their positions without being canceled.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

Currently, I send newsletters -- both via email and through the mail system. I also take calls, make calls, and attend meetings and forums. Hearing from my constituents is an important part of my role as a representative -- a role that I take very seriously. I enjoy talking to friends, neighbors, and constituents of the 77th District. It’s truly an honor to serve the SW corner of Butler County.

Kansas House District 88 Democratic Primary

Veronica Gillette

Age: 33

Position: USD 259 Title VI Native American Indian Education Program Assistant and Realtor

Past position: I have worked 11 years with USD 259 and 3 as a Realtor with Heritage 1st Realty

Education: Wichita North High graduate

Phone: 316-393-2786

Email: veronicaforkansas@gmail.com

Website: www.veronicaforkansas.com

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

I have the energy and relevant experience necessary to represent the interests of the 88th District effectively. I enjoy listening to different perspectives and understanding the concerns of others. House District 88 is the most competitive in Kansas’s 4th Congressional District and the Democrats best opportunity to pick up the seats necessary to break the Republican Supermajority in the House. My primary opponent handed this seat to the Republicans in 2022, earning only 49% of the vote, despite Governor Kelly winning District 88 by 57%. Our district voted NO in August 2022, but many of those voters did not vote again in the general election. I am the candidate to flip District 88 back to the Democrats by turning those voters out again.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

I think one of our top issues in Wichita is the lack of affordable housing. The lack of supply is further exacerbating the increased cost of living. This prevents normal housing mobility that occurs when families have the resources to afford moving into a better house, thus opening up the supply of more affordable housing more frequently. It also prevents people from affording housing at all. We hear more and more young people are “couch surfing” with friends or living longer at their parents’ house. In Wichita, we have an opportunity to attract remote workers from other cities because our cost of living is still more reasonable than other large cities. However, we need to focus on increasing our housing supply as quickly as possible to keep the cost low and reduce inflation.

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

Property taxes are a huge concern in our state. Individuals are facing the possibility of no longer being able to afford their homes due to recent tax valuation increases. Kansans shouldn’t be taxed out of their homes due to legislative inaction when responsible tax cut plans are available. Lowering taxes can stimulate economic activity by allowing individuals and businesses to retain more of their income, leading to increased consumer spending and investment, which in turn would boost job creation. I support the three-pronged plan that was presented by House Democrats making Kansas homeowners responsible for only 48% of the overall tax base, replenishing the Local Ad Valorem Tax Relief Fund, and expanding the homestead exemption from $45k-$60k or possibly even higher.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

The Legislature should prioritize increasing funding for public education and special education. Teachers are lacking the tools they require to do their jobs well and need to be respected for their commitment. Public funds should remain in public schools, as it is our constitutional duty in Kansas to ensure all children receive an adequate and equitable education, regardless of their location. Alternative schools should seek funding methods that do not divert resources from public education. Teachers, like all professionals, deserve the protection of due process. This legal safeguard ensures that educators are treated with fairness. Due process provides teachers with job security, allowing them to concentrate fully on educating their students.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

I strongly support the expansion of Medicaid in Kansas. This vital initiative not only addresses the healthcare needs of our fellow Kansans but also brings numerous benefits to our state’s economy and overall well-being. By expanding Medicaid, 150,000 Kansans would receive coverage and 23,000 new jobs would be created in the first year. Moreover, Medicaid expansion is a fiscally responsible choice for Kansas. It would bring significant federal funding into our state, covering the majority of the costs associated with expanding coverage. Kansas has already had four rural hospitals closed in recent years meaning no access to emergency care, surgery, safe childbirth, and hundreds of lost jobs.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

Women across Kansas are weary of continually seeing their reproductive freedom debated and targeted. Over 600,000 Kansans have voiced their support for women’s right to privacy and access to reproductive care. Yet, within less than a year following the August 2nd election, House Republicans have introduced and passed several anti-abortion bills. Politicians should not supersede medical professionals or dictate decisions regarding women’s healthcare. When elected, I will advocate for women’s equality and guarantee that every woman has the autonomy and freedom to make the best decisions for herself and her family, regardless of her circumstances.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

Legalizing marijuana would bring numerous benefits to Kansas. Kansans who suffer from a variety of conditions including but not limited to chronic pain, nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, muscle spasms, and seizures should have the option to use marijuana for medicinal use outside of pharmaceuticals. Legalization would create an increase in job growth, including dispensaries, cultivation facilities, and processing centers as well as other businesses like transportation, security, and consulting services. The tax revenue generated from legalization could be used on public schools, investing in infrastructure, adding to Rainy Day funds, and more. Kansas would also see reduced costs associated with policing and incarcerating individuals for marijuana-related offenses.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

No answer provided.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

Bipartisan collaboration is crucial for effective governance, as it leads to more inclusive, durable, and well-rounded policies that better serve the public interest. I am willing to put aside partisan differences to work for the common good. It’s not left and right, it’s up and down. In order to achieve this, engaging in open and respectful dialogue, finding common ground, and identifying shared goals and areas of agreement where bipartisan cooperation can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes. Issues I would prioritize working across the aisle on include addressing healthcare access, fostering economic growth, job creation, supporting small businesses, improving public education, and ensuring secure, fair, and accessible elections.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

As a Legislator, I would use a variety of methods to engage and communicate with my constituents. The use of social media would allow me to share information quickly and interact in real time. On top of social media, I would provide newsletters with updates on legislative activities, upcoming votes, and relevant issues. Attending and speaking at community events would provide an opportunity to connect with constituents in person. Listening and understanding the views and experiences of my constituents is crucial to making informed decisions on policies and laws and elevating their voices. As an elected official, I cannot expect my constituents to come to me so I will prioritize meeting voters where they are, including the doorstep.

Chuck Schmidt

Age: 74

Position: Retired educator

Past position: 33 year educator, 14 years as a Superintendent of Schools, Member Wichita Library Board, Officer in Silver Haired Legislature, Former State Representative District 88

Education: Master’s plus in education

Phone: 620-330-4576

Email: chuckschmidt4ks@gmail.com

Website: www.votechuckschmidt.com

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

As a school administrator I learned to work with everyone, regardless of their status in life or political persuasion. This served me well when I was in the House of Representatives and we were able to achieve some bipartisan accomplishments. I have always been in leadership positions and have made it a priority to work collaboratively with all those involved. As the former representative of this district, I am familiar with the people and the process. This will allow me to hit the ground running when serving again.

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

I believe the top issue is Medicaid Expansion. Expansion would be the most helpful legislation for over 150,000 people who could benefit from health insurance. It is immoral that we do not pass this legislation to help those working people who cannot afford insurance. The legislative leadership will not even allow a vote. This would cost very little to the state and would actually help our economy. It would provide medical and mental health benefits for so many Kansans. If we defeat some of the legislators who are blocking this progress, I believe it may cause leadership to reconsider.

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

Governor Kelly and the legislature passed some meaningful tax reform in the special session. However, the property tax reform was not as much as it could have been. Property tax is the most hated tax because it does not reflect a person’s ability to pay. We should avoid the efforts to pass a flat income tax because that provides most relief to the wealthy and I am glad Governor Kelly vetoed that effort. I believe in a graduated income tax which ensures that the tax burden is fair to all income levels.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

We need to fully fund education and that includes special education. When I was in the legislature we originally passed a bill to fully fund special education, but the leadership voted to reconsider and then twisted arms to get the bill defeated. We also need to stop attacking our teachers and administrators. This is demoralizing and is causing many to leave the field. Our teachers need to be better paid to reflect the importance of their work and educational requirements. Education is the most important obligation of state government and teacher pay should reflect that value.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

We absolutely should expand Medicaid. As mentioned earlier, it would provide healthcare for over 150,000 Kansans who cannot afford insurance. This ends up costing all of us because these people use the most expensive form of healthcare, emergency rooms, and we all have to pay for that cost. 40 states have expanded and we know that rural hospitals in non-expansion states are six times more likely to close than in expansion states. Expansion would provide access to medical and mental health resources and would help our economy with well paid healthcare jobs. We have a serious mental health crisis in Kansas and many of these people could be helped with regular therapy and or medication. This could then allow them to hold steady jobs.

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

The government should stay out of women’s healthcare decisions. Kansans voted clearly on this issue in 2022 and 65% of voters in District 88 voted NO. In spite of this, the legislature and this incumbent representative continue to vote for restrictive reproductive rights legislation. We need to trust women and stay out of the decisions that should be made by them and their doctor.

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

We should legalize medical cannabis to help thousands of Kansans dealing with debilitating pain and certain medical conditions. As a former chemical abuse counselor I have some reservations about legalizing recreational marijuana. However, I believe it will eventually happen and as long as we have sufficient regulations and the state receives sufficient tax revenues, I would be open to legalization.

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

Kansas elections are fair and secure. There is no need to pass further restrictions on voting. In fact we should make voting easier. I would support encouraging more mail ballots, ballot drop boxes, and possibly even an election holiday. We should want every eligible voter to cast a ballot in every election. We also need to stop gerrymandering for political considerations by having a bipartisan committee to establish districts every 10 years.

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

I can work across the aisle on a number of issues because I established strong relationships with many legislators of both parties when I was in office. Even though we disagree on some issues we can find issues in which we can work collaboratively. Mental health is an issue which transcends party lines and while I was in the legislature we improved access to mental health resources including funding for the mental health hospital in Wichita. We can also work together on meaningful property tax reform and funding for schools. I believe that we could also pass Medicaid expansion if the leadership would allow a vote. There are many in both parties who support expansion.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

Communication with constituents is one of my strengths. I would hold regular listening sessions when in the district to hear constituent concerns. I would also communicate through newsletters and email along with personal contact. I was always quick to respond to any inquiry I had from constituents when serving. The people in this district know me because I have been to many of their doors to listen and talk with them about issues.

Kansas House District 90 Republican Primary

Steve Huebert

Huebert has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.

Carl Maughan

Maughan ended his re-election campaign in late May.

Jesse McCurry

Age: 46

Position: Work for an accounting firm

Past position: No answer provided.

Education: MA and BS from K-State

Phone: 785-477-9474

Email: jesse_mccurry@outlook.com

Website: www.mccurryforkansashouse.org

Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?

Best representation; stand up and be present

What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?

Tax policy must be sound

Should the Legislature lower taxes again in the next session? If so, what taxes should be targeted?

Yes. TBD would love input in race.

What kinds of laws should the Legislature prioritize that would affect Kansas schools?

No answer provided.

Do you think Kansas should expand Medicaid?

I want to hear from constituents but probably not

What role do you think the Legislature should play in creating or enforcing policies that affect people’s access to abortion or reproductive health care?

I am pro life

Do you think Kansas should legalize marijuana?

Probably not but I am willing to explore in good faith

Are elections in Kansas secure and accurate? What kind of legislation would you support, if any, regarding elections?

Our elections in Kansas are sound

Do you see yourself working across the aisle on any issues? If so, talk about how you would do that and on what issues.

Yes. Juvenile justice and water.

How do you plan to communicate with and engage your constituents on issues?

Open door and newsletter

Darren Pugh

Pugh has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.

Kansas House District 102 Republican Primary

Kyler Sweely

Sweely has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.

Tyson Thrall

Thrall has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.

Kansas House District 105 Republican Primary

David Hickman

Thrall has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.

Jill Ann Ward

Ward has not yet responded to The Eagle’s voter guide questionnaire.