Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. issues Executive Order regarding Paid Parental Leave

Press Release for Kansas Governors Office

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Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. recently issued Executive Order 18-19 providing paid parental leave for Kansas state employees.

Under the policy, all state employees under the jurisdiction of the governor will be eligible to receive paid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child, with primary caregivers receiving six weeks and secondary caregivers receiving three weeks. Employees will receive 100 percent of their regular salary during their leave.

“I think this is an important initiative for all Kansans,” said Governor Colyer. “It shows how important our children are to us and how much we value family here in Kansas. I want state employees to have the same type of benefits that you see in private businesses across our state and nation, and I encourage all other statewide elected officials and agencies to adopt comparable policies for their employees.”

The new policy will apply to over 17,000 state employees. Kansas joins 14 states and the District of Columbia in providing paid parental leave to all or some of their workforce.

Opinion: The Hawver Report - Nov. 14, 2018

By Martin Hawver

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How would you like to be elected governor of Kansas by about 46,000 votes on Tuesday and on Friday learn that you’re going to have $306.4 million more to spend than you thought?

Martin Hawver

Doesn’t get much better than that, does it? Well, that’s exactly what has happened to Gov.-elect Laura Kelly, who by the way beat Republican Secretary of State Kris Kobach who pledged during his campaign to start cutting taxes quickly if elected.

Well, Kelly isn’t talking tax cuts, she’s talking investment in schools, expanding Medicaid and balancing the budget without new taxes—and that was before she heard about the $306 million windfall which the Consensus Revenue Estimating Group unveiled Friday. The CREG meets twice a year, in November and April, to predict upcoming state revenues.

This might be an interesting four years ahead with a governor who wants to first take care of the state’s responsibilities that have been avoided the past several years before talking about tax cuts. The new money is good, of course, but we’re not yet constitutionally “adequate” on state aid to schools and are making little progress in restoring money that has been “swept” out of agency budgets for highway construction, pensions and such.

No, we’re not looking for Kelly to start handing out tax cuts while she’s waiting for her stationery and business cards to be printed up.

In fact, even before that $306 million windfall, Kelly was talking about waiting until next April’s Consensus Revenue Estimate before giving much thought to tax cuts—after she’s nailed down the spending necessary to restore state government duties.

Part of that, of course, is her experience as a member of the Senate Ways and Means Committee—which makes the appropriations and cuts necessary to balance the budget. It’s been more cuts than appropriations in the past few years, and she’s made clear that restoration of services is first in line, ahead of tax cuts.

What’s it mean? Well, from a Statehouse viewpoint, it probably means a rather complicated “State of the State” message when lawmakers come back to town in mid-January. She’s a details person, likely to talk more about programs that need to be rebuilt or financed adequately than new programs that Republicans tend to spend a lot of time trying to think up catchy names (or acronyms) for.

Don’t look for flash.

Now, remember that she’s going to face an overwhelmingly Republican legislature that is probably going to be more interested in cutting taxes than rebuilding the state payroll of social workers and helping local school districts rebuild their staff of teachers and aides.

Key there is for the governor to convince those conservatives in the Legislature that the not-very-flashy care of the poor and ill and their children are the best way to improve the state before cutting taxes.

Tax cuts? They will probably start with the sales tax on food. It’s a big deal for the poor who see the cost of a can of beans at 9% or 10% (depending on local sales taxes) more than the shelf price before they get it out of the store and into the kitchen.  Oh, and it also means that those steaks and salmon are cheaper, too, but it’s not an afford-it or not decision for more prosperous Kansans.

That $306 million? Well, it gives Kelly some negotiating room, enough spare cash to bargain a dab of tax cut in return for the social service, highway construction and health-care expenditures she’d like to make.

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But all that new direction in state spending that Kelly proposes will ultimately be keyed off of the makeup of the Legislature, and whether that top-heavy Republican majority in both chambers is solid enough to pass veto-proof legislation.

We’ll see. Check back in April…

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at www.hawvernews.com

Final Recap - Kansas General Election

Final Report of the Night

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Kansas Election Night - Report #3

Live Video Report - Kansas Elections 2018

8 PM Report

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Opinion: The Contentious Words and Name Calling Turns

Kevin Surbaugh

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photographer Kevin Surbaugh

The November election is tomorrow. How many people will vote tomorrow? Last week Douglas County reported that 23% had already voted (through Oct 29).  Since then the Kansas Secretary of State has reported 300,000 had already cast a vote in early voting statewide.  That kind of turnout is unprecedented, for a midterm election. Will that turnout hold true through election day tomorrow.  We will see, but for now, let's focus on my endorsements for this years election.

On the Federal level, you probably already seen my endorsement of Steve Watkins over Paul Davis.

photographer Kevin Surbaugh

In the race for Governor of the Great State of Kansas, Laura Kelly (Democrat), Kris Kobach (Republican), and Greg Orman (Independent) are considered to be the three battling it out.  There are two others running, another independent and a Libertarian. They aren't even polling higher then single digits,  Then again, neither is Orman. So why is he considered a major candidate and the other two aren't? It goes back to when, he ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Senate against Pat Roberts, when without a Democrat in the race, he came in a strong second place.

Polling 

The Governor's race is interesting to me. It, of course, is the meat and potatoes in Kansas politics. Our focus boils down to Kelly and Kobach.  Polling, which I had alluded to already, have the race very tight. A poll conducted by Emmerson has Kobach edging Kelly 44% to 43% in a poll conducted between October 26 and 28.
In another poll, conducted about the same time (Oct 17-27), ISPOS and Reuters in conjunction with the Virginia Center of Politics reported that Kelly edged out Kobach 43% to 41%, in a statistical dead heat.

Backbiting

The race has been interesting, to say the least. Like both of the Congressional races in eastern Kansas, it has been contentious. With former Republican Governors and U.S. Senators endorsing the Democrat. Republicans who have ignored Ronald Reagan statement, "never say anything bad about fellow Republicans."  It is true that Republican politicians have supported Democrats before, likewise, Democrats support Republicans. However, those instances were done in secret. Not publicly broadcasted. It is part what is expected from the leadership of any party. I, myself have personally served as a precinct committeeman. A position that, in part elects the chair and other leadership of their respective party. In turn, they also help promote the candidates of their party, they cannot publicly support any candidate from another party. Doing so goes against the grain of what they were elected to do. So the actions and statements by that handful of Republicans (some of who I call friends) are disappointing.

Endorsement

So, who am I endorsing? Well, I actually cast my vote, with having to be in the office until 4:30 and then driving in rush hour traffic back to home, it was just easier. Even though I am among the 23% plus that has already voted, it is important for me to lay out my cards and tell my readers who I voted for and thus who I encourage each of you to vote for also. That candidate is Kris Kobach. True, there are issues I disagree with him on.  One of which is medical marijuana. Something that has been proven to offer relief for some kinds of pain and medical conditions. Something that Missouri and Utah are voting on tomorrow to join the growing list of states that will legalize it for those with a doctors prescription. I think Kobach could come around with some education.   His commitment to hold the line on taxes is a big reason I support him.

State Representative

In the race for state representative, Eileen Horn is running unopposed, so I wrote my own name in.  If you so chose, you can also write in the name of D. Kevin Surbaugh for state representative. I have not campaigned for the position, nor will I, but I will accept the position if there are enough write-in votes.

Live Reporting

Finally, I will be live posting results as they come in tomorrow night. The first post I expect will be around 7:30, thirty minutes after the polls close. Who will win? We will find out tomorrow night.

Opinion: A Look at the Second Congressional Election

Kevin Surbaugh

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It's that time of the year again. Yes, it's election time.  That is no surprise with all the contentious barbs that have been being traded this election cycle. In fact, it has been one of the most contentious I have seen in several years.  Even more so than the Trump v Clinton election two years ago.
My mailbox has been filled with a lot of mail from both sides.

One piece of mail came from a group calling itself the Center for Voter Information, out of Springfield, MO.  Once it was opened up, I found the mailer was a liberal organization, twisting the truth. The first problem is that it is out of state interest group, interjecting itself into a Kansas election.  The second, it claimed that Steve Watkins wants to cut the taxes for millionaires.  Trying to insinuate that he wants to raise everyone else's taxes.  The real fact is that he wants to lower the taxes for everyone, especially the poor.  The fact that millionaires are also included, is a good thing.  If the millionaire's taxes are lower, they have more money to pay employees. Yes, millionaires tend to be the ones who own businesses. As such they create jobs.  More money they have, the more jobs they can create. The more jobs they create, the more people are working and paying taxes.  Which, is a big win for the government.
The fact Paul Davis is shady is, or should be by now obvious, with his being present in the back room of a strip club, receiving a lap dance when the club was raided for drugs. One could say, as Davis tries to, that was thirty-years ago. Does change the fact, that as a lawyer he should have known better.  Sure people can change, but it's hard to not overlook that fact.  I admit, I have done things in my past, that I would rather forget. Especially in my youth. That, however, was just that I was not a lawyer, I was not someone, who was representing the law in any way. I was young and ipressionable, I since grew up.  Davis was a grown man, working as a lawyer.
He in turns tries to paint Watkins to be just as shady. I for one am not buying it. Yes, I have qualms about the GOP nominee (I endorsed and voted for Caryn Tyson in the Primary), but I cannot in good conscience, vote for someone, who wants to raise taxes on Americans.  Which in turn, if it happened, would raise unemployment.  The fact is, we must cut Government waste.  If a candidate, isn't willing to look at cutting government waste first and foremost then I am not interested in voting for them,  It is for that reason, I am endorsing Steve Watkins for Congress in the second district of Kansas,  

Steve Watkins Endorsed by National Federation of Independent Business

Topeka, KS - Steve Watkins, U.S. Army veteran and Republican nominee for Kansas' 2nd Congressional District, has earned an endorsement from the National Federation of Independent Business, which is dedicated to electing small business advocates to Congress.

Steve Watkins (Gazette File Photo)

“I am truly honored to have my candidacy for Congress endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Business, an organization that consistently stands up for the needs of our nation's small businesses,” said Steve Watkins. “As someone who has found both success and failure in the small business world, I know how tough it can be to start and grow a business and I will be a dedicated advocate for those who keep our local communities growing.”
"Steve Watkins has a deep understanding of the small business climate in our state,” said NFIB’s Kansas State Director Daniel Murray. “He knows the issues that concern our members, and we are confident that he will be a strong advocate for small business in the United States House of Representatives. On behalf of small business owners in Kansas’ 2nd Congressional District, we are proud to endorse Steve Watkins for election to the U.S. House.”
This endorsement adds to four others earned by Steve Watkins in recent weeks, including the National Right to Life Committee, Kansans for Life, National Rifle Association, and an endorsement from President Donald Trump.

President Trump Coming to Topeka

by Kevin Surbaugh, compiled from Press Releases

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TOPEKA  - In a recent announcement, President Donald Trump announced he will visit Topeka, Kansas in support of Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach's campaign for governor. The October 6 event is free, but tickets are required.
Upon the announcement, Kobach said

"I'm honored and grateful that President Trump will be coming to Kansas on October 6. President Trump's success in cutting taxes at the national level unleashed economic growth, and I want to accomplish the same thing in Kansas by reducing our crushing tax burden. It has been a great privilege to work with President Trump's administration as a transition team member and informal adviser, and I look forward to working with him closely when I am Governor of Kansas."

 Steve Watkins, U.S. combat veteran, engineer, and Republican nominee for Kansas' 2nd Congressional District, a statement in response to the upcoming rally at the Expocentre in  Topeka, saying,

“Regardless of your political stripes, it is always a true honor to have an opportunity to welcome the President of the United States to your hometown. President Trump recognizes that this upcoming election and the race for the Second District of Kansas, in particular, is critical to the future of our nation and the Great State of Kansas. While my liberal career politician opponent, Paul Davis, has proudly embraced Nancy Pelosi’s radical agenda and has in turn been showered with over $2 million in outside liberal interest group spending, conservatives like President Trump are supporting me. I look forward to meeting President Trump on October 6th and sharing with him my plans to help deliver lower taxes, enhanced border security, and higher paychecks for 2nd District Residents.”

NRA Endorses a Gubernatorial Candidate

Press Release

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TOPEKA  - The National Rifle Association (NRA) today announced its endorsement of Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach for Governor. The NRA's Political Victory Fund praised Kobach's support for gun rights and his advocacy for America's hunting heritage. The organization urged all NRA members, gun owners, and sportsmen in Kansas to vote for Kobach in November.

In a statement, Kobach told the media,

"I am humbled and honored by the NRA's endorsement, I will always defend our Second Amendment rights."

Your Five Candidates for Kansas Governor

compiled by Kevin Surbaugh

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Below I have compiled a brief biographical profile of each candidate.


Republican:

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Kris Kobach

Kris Kobach (file photo)

Birthday: March 26, 1966 (52 years old)
Marital Status: Married to Heather Kobach (17 years)
Children: 5 - Josephine, Lilly, Charlotte, Reagan, and Molly Kobach
Occupation: was a lawyer and law professor before being elected Secretary of State.
Education:  Washburn Rural High School, Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from Harvard University, M.A. and D.Phil. in Politics at the University of Oxford, earned a J.D. from Yale Law School

Kobach won a seat on the Overland Park, Kansas, City Council, in April 1999. He unsuccessfully ran for a state senate seat in 2000.  In 2004 Kobach unsuccessfully challenged then Congressman Dennis Moore.  In 2007, Kobach was elected Chairman of the Kansas Republican Party, a position he served for two years. Later in 2010, he was elected to his first of two terms as Secretary of State, a position he currently holds.  Kobach announced in June 2018 that he would run for Governor of Kansas against incumbent Governor Jeff Colyer. After a narrow primary victory, Kobach is running against Democrat Laura Kelly, Independents Greg Orman, and Rick Kloos, as well as Libertarian Jeff Caldwell in the general election.



Democrat:

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Laura Kelly

Laura Kelly (file photo)

Birthday: January 24, 1950 (age 68)
Marital Status: Married to Dr. Ted Daughety (34 years)
Children: 2 - Kathleen and Molly Daughety
Occupation: prior to being elected State Senator, she was director of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association for 19 years and prior to that recreational therapist, which involved using recreation to help children with mental illness.
Education: Bradley University, Indiana University Bloomington


In 2005, Kelly was elected as a Democratic member of the Kansas Senate, representing the 18th District. Currently, she is the Senate Minority Whip, previously during the 2011-2012 Legislative Sessions, she served as the Kansas Senate Assistant Minority Leader.  In 2009 she briefly considered a run for Kansas's 2nd congressional district.

Libertarian:

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Jeff Caldwell

Jeff Caldwell (file Photo)

Birthday:  September 8, 1986 (age 32)
Marital Status:   Single
Children:   0
Occupation:   Sales 
Education:        Attended, Business, Johnson County Community College, 2008     
Attended, Business, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2007     
Attended, Business, Benedictine College, 2006     
Attended, Business, Mid-America Nazarene University, 2005-2006

   Jeff has lived in the Kansas City area  his entire life and in Kansas for 20 years. Caldwell has been an executive member for the Libertarian Party of Kansas since 2010. He has been a volunteer and campaign manager for multiple campaigns over the years and has run for Kansas State House of Representative  three times. 
Among his accomplishments, he has helped with drafting, introducing, and passing legislation through the legislative process in Topeka. Jeff has been to the committee hearings to get the Kansas Safe Access Act [medical cannabis] out of hearing and onto the floor for vote  and has seen firsthand the corrupt politicians who stand in the way of allowing medical cannabis to move forward in Kansas. Caldwell helped with the process of creating the Kansas Education Liberty Act, which would bring school choice and funding from outside  of the state to education in Kansas. A major victory was scored when Jeff helped overturn Lenexa's city ordinance of banning open carry of firearms. Jeff Caldwell is the only candidate running to cut government spending, cut taxes, legalize cannabis and defend  the Second Amendment.



Independents:

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Rick Kloos

Rick Kloos (file photo)

Birthday: July 26, 1966 (52 years old)
Marital Status: Married to Pennie Kloos (33 years)
Children: 4 - Nathaniel Kloos (Also his Lt. Gov Running mate), Michael Kloos, Ricky Kloos, Matt Kloos
Occupation: Director of God's Storehouse in Topeka Kansas (gshtopeka.org)

Kloos says,

I have come to appreciate this great state from my early years in rural Kansas by enjoying the outdoors -fishing, hunting and camping. As a teenager, I was known by the local farmers as “Mr. Stuck” because too many times I would get stuck mudding and have to be pulled out by one of the farmers with his tractor. At sixteen, I started driving a truck across Kansas, building my own business. I learned the value of hard work from my mother who is a German immigrant. I learned the art of negotiation from my stepdad, making my small business successful at a young age.  My wife and I graduated cum laude from Trinity College in North Dakota with a Bachelors in Theology and Ministerial Studies and served as clergy for nearly 30 years. I then continued my studies in substance abuse counseling at Washburn University and later received certification in ACPE which allowed me to serve both as a police and hospice chaplain in correctional facilities and clinical settings.  We have been in the Topeka community since May of 1998. In June of 2009, we started a non-profit thrift store employing a staff of 30. Its success is not credited to our leadership alone but in part to all our hardworking staff and volunteers. Pennie and I have been in public service almost all our lives. We realize that life is no longer about our dreams, visions and aspirations but it’s about our kids and our grandkids. It’s about their future and the generations to come. And this is where our next season in life begins. Our journey is about the passion we have for Kansas and the desire for it to be a place where we all can successfully live.

Kloos brands himself as a "Frustrated Republican," due to his previous party affiliation.
He recently told the media that his campaign adopted The White Buffalo as the Kloos for Kansas campaign symbol early on, due to the significance of the Buffalo as the Kansas State animal and the extreme rarity of White Buffalo. HIs campaign slogan is "Keep Kansas Home."
Kloos' 5 core platform points are: Support Education Redesign, Strengthen Agriculture & Aviation, Preserve Kansas' Appeal, Empower Local Governments & Unite Kansas through Bipartisan Efforts.

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Gerg Orman

Greg Orman (file photo)

Birthday: December 2, 1968 (age 49 years)
Marital Status: Married to Sybil Orman (5 years)
Children: 2 -  Imogen and Sigrid Orman
Occupation: Businessman
Education:   Mankato East Senior High School in Mankato, Minnesota and Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Princeton University.

According to Wikipedia, Orman, who has never been elected has

at various times Orman has been registered as a Republican and a Democrat. He has been unaffiliated with a party since 2010. After a debate in 2014 he stated, "I've tried both parties; and, like most Kansans, I've been disappointed."
 Orman has made donations to both Democrats and Republican candidates. In 2006, while he was considering running as a Democrat for the Senate, he gave $1,000 to Harry Reid, and $4,600 to the 2008 presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Public records also show donations to Dennis Moore, Nancy Boyda and Al Franken. Orman has donated substantially more to political reform organizations. In 2012 he donated $25,000 to the independent political organization Americans Elect. He has also contributed $288,236 to the Common Sense Coalition.

Orman, Wikipedia reported was briefly a candidate for the 2008 Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate election in Kansas, but dropped out before the primary, saying

 "Whenever you run as a candidate in either party, there are certain constituencies that want you to behave and act and believe certain things. As I evaluated the race and looked at the positions I was going to have to take to get the support that was necessary to win, I just didn't feel comfortable taking those positions."

Governor Colyer Proclaims American Legion Day

American Legion Press Release

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  The National American Legion was chartered by the U.S. Congress on September 16, 1919, as a wartime veterans’ organization.  The American Legion principals are based on the four pillars of Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth.    

contributed photo

The Kansas American Legion has become a preeminent community-service organization with more than 42 thousand family members currently supporting the four pillars.  Kansas Legion family members provide benefits for Kansas’ veterans, active duty service members, their families, and the youth of America.
American Legion posts are organizing special events to celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the American Legion.  These events will provide opportunities for citizens to recognize Kansas Legionnaires for their many contributions to their communities and the State of Kanas.  
Governor Jeff Colyer is among those patriotic citizens who want to recognize and honor veterans.  He has expressed his support for Kansas Legionnaires by proclaiming September 16, 2018, as The American Legion Day.   
Kansas American Legion Department Commander Dan Wiley is actively encouraging Legion posts to organize 100th-anniversary observation events.  “Millions of Legionnaires have promoted American Legion ideals and principals over the past 100 years,” Wiley said.  “I appreciate Governor Colyer proclaiming September 16, 2018, as The American Legion Day to honor the efforts of those American patriots. 

KanCare Education Meetings Get Underway Today

Kansas Department of Health and Environment Press Release

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Member and provider meetings in Wichita, Olathe, Topeka, Pittsburg Dodge City, Hays

TOPEKA – Beginning this past, Tuesday, September 4, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will host education meetings throughout the state during the months of September and October, to share with KanCare providers and members updates and information about the upcoming open enrollment period. KanCare is the state’s Medicaid program.

Staff members will be available to answer questions and accept feedback from attendees. All meetings are ADA compliant, and people with disabilities will have full access. Members’ family members are also welcome to attend. Members and providers received by mail advanced notification of these meetings.

SEPTEMBER MEETINGS

Tuesday, Sept. 4	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Marriott Corporate Hills 9100 Corporate Dr., Wichita
Wednesday, Sept. 5	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Kansas State University – Olathe 22201 W. Innovation Dr., Olathe
Thursday, Sept. 6	Providers 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.	Conference Call: Call 833-795-0476

OCTOBER MEETINGS     

Monday, Oct. 1	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Ramada Topeka Downtown, Jefferson Hall 420 SE 6th St., Topeka
Monday, Oct. 1	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Wichita Marriott, Corporate Hills Ballroom 9100 Corporate Hills Dr., Wichita
Tuesday, Oct. 2	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Kansas State University – Olathe 22201 W. Innovation Dr., Olathe
Tuesday, Oct. 2	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Dodge City Community College, Student Union Board Room 2501 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City
Wednesday, Oct. 3	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Holiday Inn Express 4011 Parkview Dr., Pittsburg
Wednesday, Oct. 3	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Fort Hays State University, Eagle Communications Hall 600 Park St., Hays
Monday, Oct. 8	Providers 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Members 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.	Conference Call: Call 833-795-0476

Former GOP Governor Graves Endorses Democrat Laura Kelly

Kevin Surbaugh

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Former Republican Governor Bill Graves on Tuesday formally endorsed Democrat Laura Kelly in the 2018 race for Kansas governor. His endorsement makes him the most prominent moderate Republican to make such an endorsement in this election cycle.
The endorsement, which came in a video that was tweeted by the Kelly campaign, stirred a lot of conversation among Republicans and Democrats alike. The video, which appeared to look like a television commercial, is for social media only, the Kelly campaign told the Gazette.

 pic.twitter.com/odwTMCEyb2

— Laura Kelly (@SenatorKelly) September 4, 2018

In his video statement, Graves said,

I have been a Republican my entire life and inherited that from my father in my mother Laura Kelly is the only Democrat I have ever endorsed for public office and the reason I'm doing that now is because I believe so much is at stake in the state of Kansas and it's going to take someone with some very capable leadership skills someone who is willing to work across the aisle and be part of solutions to problems with education problems with our health care system problems with the state's infrastructure problems with Public Safety Laura to me has all equalities all the capabilities that we're looking for to lead the state during this difficult time to reestablish the state to what it once was laura has integrity I know she'll bring Republicans and Democrats together to solve problems

Upon hearing the news Republican Senator Susan Wagle tweeted,

Bill Graves never governed as a Republican and spent his career undermining Republican candidates and values. This endorsement is far from news breaking.

Independent candidate Greg Orman seized upon the message that Graves said that, “Laura Kelly is the only Democrat I have ever endorsed for public office.”
The truth Orman said is, in 2016 Bill Graves endorsed the following four Democrats. Why the deception in the statement today?     

1. Adrienne Olejnik, District 51         https://twitter.com/i/status/796112654427443200     
2. Gerrett Morris, District 69         https://www.ksal.com/former-governors-make-endorsement/     
3. Don Shimkus, District 32         https://twitter.com/donshimkus?lang=en         
4. Tom Sawyer, District 95         https://www.tomsawyerforkansas.com/bill-graves-supports-tom

While Orman's statement may be accurate, the fact is that Kelly would be the first statewide candidate that Graves has endorsed. Graves is retired currently lives with his family in Northern Virginia.

Former Presidential Candidate and Senator John McCain Passes Away

Kevin Surbaugh

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This past Friday (August 24, 2018) we learned that Senator John McCain (81) had decided to stop further treatment for the brain cancer he had been battling for the past ten months. Glioblastoma is the same aggressive brain cancer that killed Vice-President Joe Biden's son Beau and Senator Ted Kennedy.  One day later, McCain passed away from the deadly cancer. Both Senator's passed away on August 25 exactly nine years apart. McCain's death came one day after his family announced that he was forgoing further treatment.
According to a brief statement on the Senator's Senate website,

Senator John McCain
Photo Credit: Senate.gov

“Senator John Sidney McCain III died at 4:28pm on August 25, 2018. With the Senator when he passed were his wife Cindy and their family. At his death, he had served the United States of America faithfully for sixty years.”

 The Senator's wife Cindy McCain tweeted:

"My heart is broken. I am so lucky to have lived the adventure of loving this incredible man for 38 years. He passed the way he lived, on his own terms, surrounded by the people he loved, in the place he loved best."

Senator Jerry Moran tweeted the following statement:

"Godspeed to my friend @SenJohnMcCain, who leaves behind a profound legacy of courage and conviction. Robba and I are praying for the McCain family and we thank them for sharing John with us for so many years"

Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer issued a statement

“Senator McCain will long be remembered for his years of dedicated service to our nation,” said Gov. Colyer, “We are grateful to him for his devotion to this country and send our deepest condolences to his family as they grieve his passing today. May God be with them all during this difficult time.”

Senator Pat Roberts tweeted:

My friend @SenJohnMcCain is an American hero and has spent his life serving our country. Franki and I are praying for the entire McCain family and wish them peace and comfort in the coming days.

Independent Candidate Greg Orman issued a statement:

"Sybil and I were saddened to hear the news of Senator John McCain’s passing. Our hearts go out to the McCain family—our thoughts and our prayers are with them. Tonight, the United States mourns the loss of a great American patriot and hero."

Libertarian Gubernatorial candidate Jeff Caldwell issued the following statement: 

Our campaign is saddened to hear the news of Sen. John McCain’s passing and we offer our condolences to his family in this time of mourning. Death is the great equalizer and transcends politics. Sen. John McCain was a great American that served his country for his entire life and deserves the respect of all Americans. Although there may be differences in approach, there is no question that Sen. John McCain was committed to this country and to his fellow countrymen.

Republican Gubernatorial candidate and current Secretary of State Kris Kobach tweeted:

"I am grateful for Sen. John McCain's service to our country. Heather and I hope that his wife, Cindy, and family find comfort knowing our nation is praying for them during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Senator."

Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Laura Kelly tweeted:

 "John McCain was a man of honor and unrivaled integrity. My heart goes out to his family as they grieve. He was a true American patriot."

Senator McCain had stated that he wanted his funeral to be at the United State Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD and that President Trump was not invited.  His wishes also stated that former President's (and presidential rivals) Barrack Obama and George W. Bush have been asked to speak at the funeral. At the time of this writing, there were no official arrangements made yet.

Steve Watkins Issues Statment Regarding Mollie Tibbetts Murder

Press Release

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Steve Watkins  (File Photo)

Topeka, KS -- Steve Watkins, U.S. combat veteran, engineer, and Republican candidate for Kansas’ 2nd Congressional District, today released the following statement blasting progressive politicians who support senseless immigration policies that put American citizens at risk. Watkins’ statement comes after a criminal illegal alien was arrested yesterday by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) officials for the murder of Mollie Tibbetts, a University of Iowa student who had been missing since July 18, 2018.
“I am heartbroken that the month-long search for Mollie Tibbetts ended after she was found dead at the hands of Cristhian Bahena Rivera, a criminal illegal alien who had no business being in our country," said Steve Watkins. "We are a nation of law and order, and any politician who continues to support senseless immigration policies that put the well-being of criminal illegal aliens before the American people is an utter disgrace. In Congress, I will fight alongside President Trump to build a border wall, reform our broken immigration, and keep 2nd District communities safe so no family ever has to endure a tragedy like this.”

Hawver: Will Kansas Governors Race be a Traditional General Election Race

by Martin Hawver

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If there was ever a predictable pattern in Kansas—and possibly even national politics—it is that Republican candidates for nearly every slot on the ballot tend to spend the primary election cycle pandering to the most diehard conservative members of their party to win the general election nomination.

Martin Hawver

Now, Democrats tend to do the same thing (with the move toward the more liberal Democrats), but in Kansas, it’s to smaller numbers of primary election voters. But it works with Democrats, too.

But after that primary in both parties, it’s been traditional that the party’s standard bearers move their campaign to the middle of their party, and in some measure to the middle of the general voting age population.

Well, this will be a year that will make it worth watching whether that generally Republican move to the middle of the party after the primary election occurs.

Chances are good that Sen. Laura Kelly, D-Topeka, the Democratic nominee for governor, will not have to move very far. She’s a practical Democrat who probably dreams about budgets and line-item vetoes and cutting a deal with moderates in the Kansas Legislature to keep government moving.

And chances are good that Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who is the Republican nominee for governor, won’t move back to the middle. We’re figuring he dreams about a border wall with Mexico—or possibly Oklahoma—or that new Trump necktie that he wants…

Oh, and best-known independent candidate Greg Orman is probably dreaming about how to snag votes from both.

This year things are going to be different. Don’t expect Kobach to move toward the political middle in his campaign. Now, short-term Gov. Jeff Colyer might have, but he conceded, remember.

So, we come to a campaign where the narrow conservative side of the GOP—which includes Kobach, of course, and unsuccessful gubernatorial nomination candidate Insurance Commissioner Ken Selzer—isn’t looking for any move to the center. Nope, and had Kobach lost the GOP nomination, we’re betting he wouldn’t have let Colyer move to the center, either.

So…where does this gubernatorial race go? Who gets elected governor and has the authority to take that preposterous stuffed buffalo head off the wall of the governor’s office and, of course, run the rest of the state?

Does Kobach come up with something new that will appeal to moderate Republicans, most of whom voted for someone else in the primary? Does Kelly come up with something that will see the moderate Republicans, who are probably most of the GOP voters, furrow their brows and vote for her as long as nobody’s watching?

Or, does Independent Orman turn out to be the safety valve for Republicans who are to the left of Kobach but just can’t bring themselves to vote for a Democrat, under the suspicion that their Republican friends will find out?

And you gotta figure that moderate Republican former Sen. Jim Barnett, of Emporia when in office and Topeka now, who drew the more liberal Republican primary voters, though not enough of them, isn’t going to be touting Kobach or even letting him put a sign in his yard.

Surprising that this election might come down to the conservative Republicans of the state and the Democrats, with Orman as a possible off-ramp for those who at least talk about the general conservative values and have never read the Kansas Republican Party platform.

Oh, and whoever wins the governor’s office must remember that in just two short years, whatever the governor pushes for or against splashes back on members of both parties in the Kansas House and Senate.

We’ll see, won’t we…

Syndicated by Hawver News Company LLC of Topeka; Martin Hawver is publisher of Hawver's Capitol Report—to learn more about this nonpartisan statewide political news service, visit the website at www.hawvernews.com

Orman and Doll Clinch November Ballot Access

Press Release

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Greg Orman, Independent
candidate for Governor

OLATHE — The Independent ticket of Greg Orman and Sen. John Doll today clinched access to the general election ballot following verification of signatures by the Secretary of State’s office as part of the campaign’s ballot petition. The candidates for Governor and Luetinet Governor will give Kansas voters a viable Independent choice in the November election for the first time in generations.
The Orman for Kansas campaign submitted more than 10,000 signatures of Kansas voters to Topeka on August 6. By state law, Independent candidates must collect at least 5,000 signatures to qualify for the general election ballot.

“Despite the best efforts of both parties to avoid electoral accountability by preventing anyone but their own from accessing the ballot, Senator Doll and I will give Kansas voters a true Independent choice in this election for the first time in generations,” said Orman.
​”I'm running for governor because we have been shut out of our own government by partisan politics and nationally-driven agendas. Over the next 12 weeks, Senator Doll and I will be traveling the state, and making our case to voters that we’re no longer willing to stand by as party bosses and special interests run our state into the ground,” Orman said.

The campaign began a statewide ad campaign last month with two spots now airing on broadcast and cable television across Kansas and reported over $450,000 cash on hand entering the general election.

Colyer Conceedes, Kobach GOP Nominee for Governor

Kevin Surbaugh

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Topeka - Governor Jeff Colyer last night (August 14, 2018) conceded the Republican party nomination for governor to Secretary of State Kris Kobach. According to Colyer's press release,

"There is only one thing to say on an occasion such as this, and that is 'Thank you'," said Gov. Colyer in his concession speech, "Thank you to our tens of thousands of supporters, especially those who gave of their time and treasure to make our campaign possible. I am very proud of the work we have done in the past six months and of the hopeful optimistic message we shared in this campaign."
“It has been an honor to serve as the Lt. Governor and meet so many Kansans across this great state,” said Lt. Governor Tracey Mann. “Governor Colyer and I are committed to supporting the Republican nominee for governor and helping him win in November.”

Colyer congratulated Kobach on his success in the primary and repeated his determination to keep the governor's seat in Republican hands. He also committed to serving out the remaining five months of his term in the same hard-working fashion he has throughout his time as governor.

"There is no greater blessing than the opportunity for service and over these remaining few months we again pledge ourselves to the people of Kansas. We will tell the truth, we will seek solutions and progress. We will listen, we will serve and we will lead. It has been a pleasure and a privilege."
When I first became Governor a few short months ago. I promised the citizens of Kansas I would listen serve and lead. We would build solutions for our neighbors. My Dad Jim Colyer always told me to put others ahead of ourselves. I learned that as a student at Thomas More in Hays. My mom Lorene always said do the right thing even when nobody is looking. Ruth and I saw it in the blood stains of Rwanda. We've experienced it in war zones around the world. And every day we try to live it, whether it is in this magnificent heart of America, or with my strong daughters, or in the operating room with someone who has no hope, or as governor of this amazing state.

The complete text of his press conference was: 

I've just had a conversation with the Secretary of State and congratulated him on his success and repeated my determination to keep this seat in Republican hands. This election may be the closest in America. But the numbers are not there.
Kansas is too important. Tracey and I will not challenge this in court, nor will we ask a recount. Right here and now we endorse the winner Kris Kobach and Wink Hartman.
There is only one thing to say on an occasion such as this, and that is "Thank You"
Thank you to our tens of thousands of supporters, especially those who gave of their time and treasure to make our campaign possible.
I am very proud of the work we have done in the past six months and of the hopeful optimistic message we shared in this campaign.
Thank you to our staff who have worked tirelessly on our behalf.
Thank you to a great Lt. Governor and running mate, Tracey Mann.
Thank you to my wonderful family, especially the love of my life, Ruth Colyer.
Thank you most of all to a gracious and loving God who has blessed our family and our state beyond measure.
Thank you to every Kansan for serving our neighbors . While a few may try to break up and tear down America, I pray we should all continue to serve our neighbors
There is no greater blessing than the opportunity for service and over these remaining few months we again pledge ourselves to the people of Kansas.
We will tell the truth, we will seek solutions, and we will govern with best interests of Kansans at heart.
We will make sure the next Governor is fully prepared and has our total cooperation in the peaceful transition of power.
We will listen, we will serve and we will lead.
It has been a pleasure and a privilege.
Thank you. Good night. May God bless you, and may God continue to bless the state of Kansas.

The Democratic Governors Association (DGA), which has been very vocal about the close Republican primary over the past week, issued a statement following the Colyer's press conference. In their partisan statement, DGA Executive Director Elisabeth Pearson said,

"Kris Kobach is Sam Brownback on steroids,” said Pearson. “Kansans aren’t going to get a change from a candidate who praised Sam Brownback as a ‘transformative governor.’ Not only would Kobach reinstate the disastrous Brownback tax plan, he wants to go even further by slashing education funding. The last thing Kansas’ schools, roads, and economy need is the policies of Sam Brownback and Kris Kobach.
“As Secretary of State, Kris Kobach proved he only cares about himself. He wasted thousands of taxpayer dollars on frivolous lawsuits. He chased the national spotlight while Kansas taxpayers paid the bill. He wasn’t looking out for Kansans as Secretary of State, and he’ll abandon them again as governor.”

In a statement from Kobach, following Governor Colyer's concession,
Kansas Secretary of State and candidate for Governor Kris Kobach that he received a call from Governor Jeff Colyer prior to his press conference. Colyer conceded the Republican primary race for Governor and offered his endorsement of the Kobach-Hartman team.

"He was incredibly gracious, and that meant a lot after such a hard-fought campaign," Kobach said. "I want to thank Gov. Jeff Colyer for a race well run. He was a worthy opponent, and I thank him sincerely for his service to the state of Kansas. I will work hard to advance our shared values, and I look forward to working with Governor Colyer and all Republicans to keep Kansas red in November."

At the end of Tuesday, after canvassing was done in all but twenty counties, Kobach held on to a lead 245 votes over Colyer. Kobach had said in earlier press conference that he expects the trend to continue. Only two of those twenty were considered big counties, Shawnee and Douglas. Both counties will have their canvass to certify votes and look at provisional ballots on tomorrow (Thursday, August 16, 2018). At the time of this writing, Kobach had scheduled another press conference for 12:30 this afternoon (August 15, 2018). 

Kobach Continues Narrow Lead

Press Release

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Topeka - As counties began certifying, the seperation between Governor Jeff Colyer and Secretary of State Kris Kobach widened. According to the Secretary of State's office there was more than 70 counties that reported final provisional ballot numbers on Monday. With those final numbers in, Secretary of State and candidate for Governor Kobach increased his lead over Jeff Colyer.
State Representative and Kansans for Kobach Campaign Manager J.R. Claeys said,

"We expect this to continue as the canvas takes place throughout the week in the remaining counties. without the interference from partisan operatives, we expect canvassers will be able to quickly finish the canvass in compliance with Kansas law. Meanwhile, we will be taking the fight to the Democrats. The liberals are hoping for a prolonged legal battle and a fractured Republican party. They won't get it. We will unite as a party and defeat the two liberal tickets in November."

At the end of the day, according to the counts on the Secretary of State's website Kobach's lead increased to the razor thin margin of 206.

Razor thin margin's seperate Kobach and Colyer.