AP Decision Notes: What to expect in the Kansas state primary
WASHINGTON (AP) — Kansas Republicans will narrow down a crowded field for governor in a state primary Tuesday as…
In the upcoming Kansas state primary, Republicans aim to narrow down a competitive field for the governor's office after eight years of Democratic leadership. Democrats, meanwhile, will decide on primary elections for governor and the U.S. Senate, while residents statewide will vote on a potential amendment to the state constitution, allowing for the direct election of state Supreme Court justices.
Governor Laura Kelly, a Democrat, is ineligible for re-election due to term limits, making the gubernatorial race a significant opportunity for Republicans to regain control of the statehouse. Despite Kansas' consistent voting Republican in federal elections, the state has a history of electing governors from the opposite party of their predecessors.
The Republican primary for governor will be a crucial test of President Donald Trump's influence in this year's primaries. Trump has thrown his support behind state Senate President Ty Masterson, opposing former state Representative Charlotte O'Hara, financial services executive Philip Sarnecki, Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, and Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab.
Sarnecki has garnered the most financial support, having loaned his campaign $2.5 million. His running mate, Joy Eakins, a data analytics firm founder and former school board member, has also contributed $1 million before dropping out to join Sarnecki's ticket. She later made a $50,000 contribution to his campaign. Schwab, the third largest spender, loaned over $2.1 million to his campaign, while Masterson, fourth in overall spending, outpaced Sarnecki and Schwab in donor contributions, excluding candidate loans.
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