Kansas State Senate elections, 2024

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← 2020
2024 Kansas Senate Elections
Primary	August 6, 2024
General	November 5, 2024

Past Election Results

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All 40 seats in the Kansas Senate were up for election on November 5, 2024. Before the election, Republicans held a 29-11 veto-proof majority in the chamber, and members were elected to four-year terms. Following the election, Republicans maintained a 31-9 veto-proof majority.

With more than two-thirds control in each chamber, Republicans held a veto-proof majority, giving them the power to override Gov. Laura Kelly's (D) veto. It was one of four states with a veto-proof majority of one party and a governor of another, along with Kentucky, North Carolina, and Vermont, with a governor of one party and a veto-proof state legislative majority of the opposing party.

Democrats would have needed to gain three House seats or three Senate seats to block a Republican supermajority. To maintain their supermajority, Republicans needed to lose fewer than two House seats and fewer than three Senate seats.

Kansas was one of 10 states that had a divided government. The outcome of the Senate elections alone could not have changed Kansas' trifecta status because Republicans also controlled the House.

Before the elections, Kansas City News Service's Zane Irwin said the partisan composition of the Legislature could have implications on the state's abortion policies. In 2022, voters rejected a ballot measure that would have prohibited the state from adding a Constitutional right to abortion. In 2024, the Legislature overrode Gov. Kelly's veto on HB2749, which requires healthcare providers ask women questions about why they're getting an abortion. Irwin also said, "[Democrats] are trying to block a flat tax. Republicans repeatedly have tried to pass a flat tax. Right now we have a multi-tiered tax system, and Republicans would like to bring it to where there's one rate that you pay in Kansas whether you are a low-income individual or are a millionaire. Republicans say that would provide broad-base tax relief at a time when our coffers are relatively flush. Democrats say that it would bring us back to a more austere era under Gov. Sam Brownback (R) where there were major tax cuts, and Democrats were worried that that would cause cuts to social services like schools and roads."

There were 11 open seats in the Senate, the most since Ballotpedia began tracking this data in 2012. Of those open districts, Ballotpedia identified two as battlegrounds. Ballotpedia also identified six battleground districts in which incumbents sought re-election. Republicans represented five of the eight total battleground districts and Democrats represented three. As of Oct. 30, 2024, CNalysis identified four of these districts as Toss-Up, one as Tilt Democratic, one as Lean Democratic, one as Likely Republican, and one as Very Likely Republican. Click here to read more about the battleground elections.

The Kansas Senate was one of 85 state legislative chambers with elections in 2024. There are 99 chambers throughout the country.

Elections for the Kansas State Senate took place in 2024. The general election was on November 5, 2024. The primary was August 6, 2024. The filing deadline was June 3, 2024.

Voting information

See also: Voting in Kansas

Election information in Kansas: Nov. 5, 2024, election.

What was the voter registration deadline?

• In-person: Oct. 15, 2024
• By mail: Postmarked by Oct. 15, 2024
• Online: Oct. 15, 2024

Was absentee/mail-in voting available to all voters?

Yes

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot request deadline?

• In-person: Oct. 29, 2024
• By mail: Received by Oct. 29, 2024
• Online: Oct. 29, 2024

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?

• In-person: Nov. 5, 2024
• By mail: Postmarked by Nov. 5, 2024

Was early voting available to all voters?

Yes

What were the early voting start and end dates?

Oct. 16, 2024 to Nov. 4, 2024

Were all voters required to present ID at the polls? If so, was a photo or non-photo ID required?

N/A

When were polls open on Election Day?

7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (CST/MST)

Battleground elections

Ballotpedia identified the battleground elections below based on media coverage and race ratings. Click on the tabs to view the candidates who ran, a brief description of the race, district partisan history, and Candidate Connection survey responses.

Of the eight battleground districts, Republicans represented six and Democrats represented two. Incumbents ran in six of these races, while the other two were in open districts, meaning no incumbents ran.

The map below highlights each battleground district colored based on the party affiliation of the incumbent.

Kansas Senate District 3

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 3

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Rick Kloos (R)	57.4	21,942
		Dena Sattler (D)	42.6	16,285

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 38,227
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Race information
Incumbent Sen. Rick Kloos (R) represented Senate District 19, and ran in District 3 following redistricting. Kloos assumed office in 2021. Dena Sattler (D) worked as a newspaper journalist and staff member for Gov. Laura Kelly (D) and Lieutenant Governor David Toland (D).

District information

• As of Oct. 7, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 3 as Very Likely Republican. According to that analysis, former President Donald Trump (D) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 11.7 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Dena Sattler (D)

I will defend our freedoms that are under constant attack in the Legislature — from our freedom to vote, to our freedom to make our own healthcare decisions.

Medicaid expansion will help 152,000 Kansans, mostly the working poor, access healthcare — and that includes 40,000 children. Besides being the right thing to do to help so many Kansas families, expanding Medicaid also is fiscally responsible. It simply makes no sense to continue sending billions of our tax dollars to other states to help them expand health care to help their residents. We can be fiscally responsible and still support our friends and neighbors.

We have to continue to defend our public schools and educators from scams like school vouchers. As we’re seeing in other states, school vouchers are nothing more than welfare for the well off. These vouchers will devastate our neighborhood schools, which is the long-standing goal of ultraconservatives working to undermine public education by diverting our tax dollars to private schools that then dodge the strict accountability of public schools.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Dena Sattler (D)

Education.

Health Care. Economic Development. Rural Policy. Veterans Affairs. Affordable Housing.

Transparency and Ethics.

Dena Sattler (D)

Education.

Health Care. Economic Development. Rural Policy. Veterans Affairs. Affordable Housing.

Transparency and Ethics.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Dena Sattler (D)

The best legislators are open minded, thoughtful and compassionate. They're critical thinkers who serve with integrity. They should be willing to research issues, to include gauging the input and interests of the people they serve. Every legislator should provide excellent constituent services, which means always listening to and responding to constituent concerns. Too often, legislators blindly follow the wishes of their party leaders, without consideration of how policies would affect their own district. Legislators also must be prepared to compromise when necessary to best serve their constituency and the state.

Dena Sattler (D)

The best legislators are open minded, thoughtful and compassionate. They're critical thinkers who serve with integrity. They should be willing to research issues, to include gauging the input and interests of the people they serve. Every legislator should provide excellent constituent services, which means always listening to and responding to constituent concerns. Too often, legislators blindly follow the wishes of their party leaders, without consideration of how policies would affect their own district. Legislators also must be prepared to compromise when necessary to best serve their constituency and the state.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Dena Sattler (D)

As a career journalist, I was a truth teller who fought for transparency and accountability. I’m also a professional listener thanks to my work in journalism, so I’m well prepared to listen to the people of my district.

My work in state government gave me a close look at the challenges of policymaking, and the pragmatic, commonsense approach by Governor Laura Kelly in particular as the state rebounded from reckless policies of the previous administration.   My military service gave me an important skill set that will be useful as a state senator. When you serve in the military, you quickly learn to work with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. We desperately need that spirit of tolerance and cooperation in the Kansas Statehouse.

When elected, I will be most interested in working toward legislation that makes our state the best place for families and businesses.

Dena Sattler (D)

As a career journalist, I was a truth teller who fought for transparency and accountability. I’m also a professional listener thanks to my work in journalism, so I’m well prepared to listen to the people of my district.

My work in state government gave me a close look at the challenges of policymaking, and the pragmatic, commonsense approach by Governor Laura Kelly in particular as the state rebounded from reckless policies of the previous administration.   My military service gave me an important skill set that will be useful as a state senator. When you serve in the military, you quickly learn to work with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. We desperately need that spirit of tolerance and cooperation in the Kansas Statehouse.

When elected, I will be most interested in working toward legislation that makes our state the best place for families and businesses.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Dena Sattler (D)

Separation of powers exists for good reason, but there always is overlap in the executive and legislative branches as a necessary means to achieve progress. The recent wrangling between Democratic Governor Laura Kelly and Republican leaders in the Legislature over a best plan for fair and sustainable tax relief is a perfect example of the importance of the executive and legislative branches in working in a back-and-forth, bipartisan way that required compromise to craft meaningful tax relief for Kansans.

Dena Sattler (D)

Separation of powers exists for good reason, but there always is overlap in the executive and legislative branches as a necessary means to achieve progress. The recent wrangling between Democratic Governor Laura Kelly and Republican leaders in the Legislature over a best plan for fair and sustainable tax relief is a perfect example of the importance of the executive and legislative branches in working in a back-and-forth, bipartisan way that required compromise to craft meaningful tax relief for Kansans.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Dena Sattler (D)

While Kansas is back on track after the reckless income-tax cuts of the Brownback administration, the state has several areas that warrant lawmakers’ attention and sincere effort moving forward — especially as the state continues to attract record-breaking economic development on Governor Laura Kelly’s watch. To ensure the long-term health and vitality of the state, its businesses and its people, the focus must be on:

• Protecting our constitutional freedoms, from our healthcare decisions to voting. • Medicaid expansion • Access to affordable childcare • Access to affordable housing • Fair tax relief, and especially property tax relief

• Strong support for public education at every level — from early education that gives children a solid foundation, all the way through K-12 and higher education to equip our students with the tools they need to be productive in the innovative, cutting-edge workplace of the future.

Dena Sattler (D)

While Kansas is back on track after the reckless income-tax cuts of the Brownback administration, the state has several areas that warrant lawmakers’ attention and sincere effort moving forward — especially as the state continues to attract record-breaking economic development on Governor Laura Kelly’s watch. To ensure the long-term health and vitality of the state, its businesses and its people, the focus must be on:

• Protecting our constitutional freedoms, from our healthcare decisions to voting. • Medicaid expansion • Access to affordable childcare • Access to affordable housing • Fair tax relief, and especially property tax relief

• Strong support for public education at every level — from early education that gives children a solid foundation, all the way through K-12 and higher education to equip our students with the tools they need to be productive in the innovative, cutting-edge workplace of the future.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Dena Sattler (D)

Previous experience in government or politics can be helpful but should not be a prerequisite to serve. Ideally, governmental bodies have a diverse mix of life experiences. Government should reflect the people it serves.

Dena Sattler (D)

Previous experience in government or politics can be helpful but should not be a prerequisite to serve. Ideally, governmental bodies have a diverse mix of life experiences. Government should reflect the people it serves.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Dena Sattler (D)

Yes. All legislators, regardless of their political beliefs, should function with civility and integrity, and attempt to develop mutual respect and cooperation. Of course, there will be times when they will, and should, disagree on what’s best for the state. Conflict should produce robust debate aired openly to help residents of the state better understand issues of the day. What’s not needed is extremism that attempts to run roughshod over, and silence anyone who might disagree.

Dena Sattler (D)

Yes. All legislators, regardless of their political beliefs, should function with civility and integrity, and attempt to develop mutual respect and cooperation. Of course, there will be times when they will, and should, disagree on what’s best for the state. Conflict should produce robust debate aired openly to help residents of the state better understand issues of the day. What’s not needed is extremism that attempts to run roughshod over, and silence anyone who might disagree.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Dena Sattler (D)

I draw inspiration from Governor Laura Kelly both in her time as Governor and as a former state senator in Kansas. Her pragmatic, commonsense, moderate approach has been a distinct difference-maker in two ways in particular: first, in helping Kansas rebound from the disastrous Brownback tax experiment that gutted numerous state services and hurt people and communities; and then in her ability to help Kansas navigate an unprecedented pandemic.

I also have been motivated by two prominent former legislators, starting with my state senator when I lived in Garden City, Kan.: former two-term Kansas Senate President Steve Morris. President Morris, who also served as president of the bipartisan National Council on State Legislatures, was a respected moderate Republican who operated in a thoughtful, bipartisan way. He has publicly endorsed my campaign. Another, former Senate Democratic Leader Anthony Hensley, has also endorsed my campaign, and I’m honored to have him as my campaign treasurer. Senator Hensley’s run in the Kansas Legislature — the longest in state history — makes him an invaluable resource when it comes to understanding the workings of the Statehouse.

All three worked effectively across the aisle to move our state forward. They did not rely on partisan, out-of-state bill mills to produce policies that don’t fit Kansas. Instead, they sought commonsense, Kansas-specific solutions. I will embrace this approach in my work as a state senator.

Dena Sattler (D)

I draw inspiration from Governor Laura Kelly both in her time as Governor and as a former state senator in Kansas. Her pragmatic, commonsense, moderate approach has been a distinct difference-maker in two ways in particular: first, in helping Kansas rebound from the disastrous Brownback tax experiment that gutted numerous state services and hurt people and communities; and then in her ability to help Kansas navigate an unprecedented pandemic.

I also have been motivated by two prominent former legislators, starting with my state senator when I lived in Garden City, Kan.: former two-term Kansas Senate President Steve Morris. President Morris, who also served as president of the bipartisan National Council on State Legislatures, was a respected moderate Republican who operated in a thoughtful, bipartisan way. He has publicly endorsed my campaign. Another, former Senate Democratic Leader Anthony Hensley, has also endorsed my campaign, and I’m honored to have him as my campaign treasurer. Senator Hensley’s run in the Kansas Legislature — the longest in state history — makes him an invaluable resource when it comes to understanding the workings of the Statehouse.

All three worked effectively across the aisle to move our state forward. They did not rely on partisan, out-of-state bill mills to produce policies that don’t fit Kansas. Instead, they sought commonsense, Kansas-specific solutions. I will embrace this approach in my work as a state senator.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Dena Sattler (D)

Currently, 100 percent of my focus is on winning the race for Kansas Senate District 3.

Dena Sattler (D)

Currently, 100 percent of my focus is on winning the race for Kansas Senate District 3.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Dena Sattler (D)

I have often heard women in my district express legitimate concern for not only themselves, but also the future of their daughters and granddaughters as ultraconservatives seek various ways to control women and restrict their reproductive freedom. These women rightly fear being jettisoned back to an era when all women were treated as second-class citizens. Their fear and desire to stop this war on women is strong motivation as I run for office.

Dena Sattler (D)

I have often heard women in my district express legitimate concern for not only themselves, but also the future of their daughters and granddaughters as ultraconservatives seek various ways to control women and restrict their reproductive freedom. These women rightly fear being jettisoned back to an era when all women were treated as second-class citizens. Their fear and desire to stop this war on women is strong motivation as I run for office.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Dena Sattler (D)

Governors need the ability to act quickly in the face of an emergency. That said, those acts should be transparent and involve input from the Legislature and the public as is practical.

Dena Sattler (D)

Governors need the ability to act quickly in the face of an emergency. That said, those acts should be transparent and involve input from the Legislature and the public as is practical.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

Dena Sattler (D)

As someone who served in the U.S. Army and has seen firsthand the serious challenges of men and women following their time in the service, I would be honored to introduce a bill to fund more effective resources for veterans in Kansas suffering from mental health conditions and other struggles. They served our nation with courage and commitment, and we always have an obligation to provide them with the best possible care and services.

Dena Sattler (D)

As someone who served in the U.S. Army and has seen firsthand the serious challenges of men and women following their time in the service, I would be honored to introduce a bill to fund more effective resources for veterans in Kansas suffering from mental health conditions and other struggles. They served our nation with courage and commitment, and we always have an obligation to provide them with the best possible care and services.

What committees interest you?

Dena Sattler (D)

Kansas Senate committees that interest me:

- Commerce. I am a staunch supporter of economic development and its part in creating healthier communities.

- Transparency and Ethics. My strong belief in the importance of both was fostered as a journalist.

Dena Sattler (D)

Kansas Senate committees that interest me:

- Commerce. I am a staunch supporter of economic development and its part in creating healthier communities.

- Transparency and Ethics. My strong belief in the importance of both was fostered as a journalist.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Dena Sattler (D)

Transparency and accountability are paramount, especially when it comes to the spending of taxpayer dollars. Bill tracking, summaries of bills and legislator voting records always should be easily available to help the public better understand the workings of their government.

Dena Sattler (D)

Transparency and accountability are paramount, especially when it comes to the spending of taxpayer dollars. Bill tracking, summaries of bills and legislator voting records always should be easily available to help the public better understand the workings of their government.

Kansas Senate District 5

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 5

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jeff Klemp (R)	50.0	15,732
		Jeff Pittman (D)	50.0	15,701

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 31,433
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Race information
Incumbent Sen. Jeff Pittman (D) and Jeff Klemp (R) ran. Pittman was first elected to the Senate in 2021. Klemp was a realtor and former president and CEO of Century Van Lines.

District information

• As of Oct. 7, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 5 as Lean Democratic. According to that analysis, former President Donald Trump (D) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 7.4 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

No candidate in this race completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey.

Kansas Senate District 10

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 10

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Mike Thompson (R)	52.4	23,884
	Submit photo	Andrew Mall (D)	47.6	21,708

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 45,592
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Race information
Incumbent Sen. Mike Thompson (R) and Andrew Mall (D) ran. Thompson was first elected to the Senate in 2020. Mall was a realtor.

District information

• As of Oct. 7, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 10 as Tilt Democratic. According to that analysis, President Joe Biden (D) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 1.4 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Andrew Mall (D)

Education - Kansas’s best-in-class public schools are one of the top reasons families choose to start their families in Shawnee and Lenexa. But our schools only deliver the education we’ve come to expect if the state fulfills its financial obligations to our students. As your senator, I will fight for fully funding our schools – including special education.

Healthcare - As the recent President of the Kansas Association of REALTORS®, I’ve worked with federal and state lawmakers on a variety of issues, including expanding health care access to the 10,000+ members here in Kansas. I’ll take that experience to Topeka, where I’ll work with my colleagues in the Legislature to address health care access, affordability, and quality. That includes expanding Medicaid, which, in addition to paying for itself, will provide essential health care to over 125,000 vulnerable Kansans across the state.

Community - My wife and I are lifelong Kansans, and we want our kids to have the opportunity to raise their families and start their careers here, too. That means finding solutions to the problems driving young people from our state: developing attainable housing, identifying amenities available in other cities and states, and moving our government away from its startling trend of taking away freedoms from Kansans.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Andrew Mall (D)

Education, Healthcare, Attainable Housing, Economic Growth

Andrew Mall (D)

Education, Healthcare, Attainable Housing, Economic Growth

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Andrew Mall (D)

Listening to and working for the people who elect the officials. Finding common ground and sensible solutions.

Andrew Mall (D)

Listening to and working for the people who elect the officials. Finding common ground and sensible solutions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Andrew Mall (D)

Good listener and ask tough questions.

Andrew Mall (D)

Good listener and ask tough questions.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Andrew Mall (D)

Understanding and fighting for your constituents' priorities.

Andrew Mall (D)

Understanding and fighting for your constituents' priorities.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Andrew Mall (D)

Working at an animal clinic at 12 years old and I stayed until I was 17.

Andrew Mall (D)

Working at an animal clinic at 12 years old and I stayed until I was 17.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Andrew Mall (D)

KNEA, IBEW, Kansas Firefighters, Kansas Realtors, KC Realtors

Andrew Mall (D)

KNEA, IBEW, Kansas Firefighters, Kansas Realtors, KC Realtors

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Andrew Mall (D)

Government must be transparent to the taxpayers.

Andrew Mall (D)

Government must be transparent to the taxpayers.

Kansas Senate District 11

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 11

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Kellie Warren (R)	52.2	22,905
		Karen Thurlow (D)	47.8	21,000

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 43,905
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Race information
Incumbent Sen. Kellie Warren (R) and Karen Thurlow (D) ran. Warren was first elected to the Senate in 2020. Warren was an attorney.

District information

• As of Oct. 9, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 11 as Toss-Up. According to that analysis, President Joe Biden (D) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 1.1 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Karen Thurlow (D)

I support fully funding our public schools and teachers. As the daughter of public educators, I know the critical role they play in our community -- and economy.

I will fight against legislation that supports vouchers. Vouchers will destroy our public education system, impacting our economy, our property values and, most importantly, our children. All too often, vouchers end up being a tax break for the well-off -- at the expense of our public schools.

Supporting public education will be a cornerstone of my tenure, if elected. I've been endorsed by every major educational group in the area -- the KNEA, Game On for Kansas Schools, Stand Up Blue Valley and others.

I support our right to reproductive healthcare. Those are decisions that should be left between a patient and her physician -- not legislators.

Kansans made it clear that they support abortion rights when we voted on the matter. Yet legislators, including my opponent, continue to introduce bills to chip away at those rights.

Abortion should be safe, legal and private.

I also support fair tax laws for Kansans. The disastrous Sam Brownback tax experiment hurt our state for too long.

Ensuring we use budget surpluses to help Kansas families is a priority. I would support bi-partisan plans like reducing property tax burden, eliminating the food sales tax and increasing the child tax credit.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Karen Thurlow (D)

Education. Healthcare. Economic.

Karen Thurlow (D)

Education. Healthcare. Economic.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Karen Thurlow (D)

Transparency is critical. This means meeting with constituents, holding Town Halls, explaining your vote and, importantly, listening to constituents.

Honesty and accountability dovetail with transparency.

It's also important to represent ALL voters, not just those who align with your party.

Karen Thurlow (D)

Transparency is critical. This means meeting with constituents, holding Town Halls, explaining your vote and, importantly, listening to constituents.

Honesty and accountability dovetail with transparency.

It's also important to represent ALL voters, not just those who align with your party.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Karen Thurlow (D)

I truly know how to reach compromise. Every day, in my job, I face people who want the opposite of what I want. We find the common ground and work toward that. I know how to build consensus. Those traits are critical.

Karen Thurlow (D)

I truly know how to reach compromise. Every day, in my job, I face people who want the opposite of what I want. We find the common ground and work toward that. I know how to build consensus. Those traits are critical.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Karen Thurlow (D)

The governor and state legislature should work together as much as possible. Right now, in Kansas, we have a GOP Supermajority. This hurts the balance of the laws we can pass. I also think there needs to be mutual respect and an agreement to pass legislation for the people. (And not withhold votes out of spite.)

Karen Thurlow (D)

The governor and state legislature should work together as much as possible. Right now, in Kansas, we have a GOP Supermajority. This hurts the balance of the laws we can pass. I also think there needs to be mutual respect and an agreement to pass legislation for the people. (And not withhold votes out of spite.)

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Karen Thurlow (D)

Our school finance formula will be rewritten, so we need to make sure it supports our public schools. Expanding Medicaid is critical. Right now, we're one of only 9 states not to expand Medicaid.

Karen Thurlow (D)

Our school finance formula will be rewritten, so we need to make sure it supports our public schools. Expanding Medicaid is critical. Right now, we're one of only 9 states not to expand Medicaid.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Karen Thurlow (D)

Yes, of course. Politics is a team sport.

Karen Thurlow (D)

Yes, of course. Politics is a team sport.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Karen Thurlow (D)

I've been endorsed by every major educational group, including the KNEA, Stand Up Blue Valley and Game On for Kansas Schools. I've been endorsed by unions-- and key Republican leaders, even though I'm a Democrat.

Karen Thurlow (D)

I've been endorsed by every major educational group, including the KNEA, Stand Up Blue Valley and Game On for Kansas Schools. I've been endorsed by unions-- and key Republican leaders, even though I'm a Democrat.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Karen Thurlow (D)

Financial transparency and government accountability are critical. Taxpayers fund the government -- and that's something we must always remember.

Karen Thurlow (D)

Financial transparency and government accountability are critical. Taxpayers fund the government -- and that's something we must always remember.

Kansas Senate District 20

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 20

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Brenda Dietrich (R)	61.8	23,270
		Candace Ayars (D)	38.2	14,357

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 37,627
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Race information
Incumbent Sen. Brenda Dietrich (R) and Candace Ayars (D) ran. Dietrich was first elected to the Senate in 2020. Ayars was a an assistant professor of heald eductation at A.T. Still University.

District information

• As of Oct. 7, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 20 as Very Likely Republican. According to that analysis, former President Donald Trump (D) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 4.2 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

No candidate in this race completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey.

Kansas Senate District 22

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 22

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Brad Starnes (R)	50.9	12,262
		Usha Reddi (D)	49.1	11,825

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 24,087
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Race information
Incumbent Sen. Usha Reddi (D) and Brad Starnes (R) ran. Reddi has served in the Senate since 2023, after Democratic precinct leaders from Riley, Geary, and Clay counties appointed Reddi to fill a vacant seat. Starnes was an education coordinator for the Associated General Contractors of Kansas, and a former teacher, principal, and superintendent.

District information

• As of Oct. 9, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 22 as Toss-Up. According to that analysis, President Joe Biden (D) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 4.6 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

No candidate in this race completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey.

Kansas Senate District 23

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 23

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Adam Thomas (R)	52.4	18,362
		Stacey Knoell (D)	47.6	16,686

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 35,048
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Race information
Stacey Knoell (D) and Adam Thomas (R) ran in the open race. Knoell was the executive director of the Kansas African American Affairs Commission. Thomas was a member of the Kansas House of Representatives and was first elected in 2018.

District information

• As of Oct. 9, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 23 as Toss-Up. According to that analysis, former President Donald Trump (R) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 2.9 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Stacey Knoell (D)

There is a clear disconnect between the will of our voters and the work of our State Legislature. You might even call it a blatant undermining of voters' explicitly expressed needs. Voters want Medicaid expansion and bodily autonomy, but those elected to represent our district continuously vote the opposite. It's evident that to reform this system, we must reform the individuals within it.

To bring bi-partisanship back to Topeka - to have a seat at the table for everyone - Kansans must vote to break the Republican supermajority. Until then, the values Kansans hold dear will not be represented in Topeka.

On August 2nd, 2022, Kansans spoke loud and clear in support of women's reproductive freedom. In a world where these rights are often challenged. My commitment to affirming the dignity, autonomy, and personal integrity of every woman across our state remains absolute. I will fight tirelessly to preserve women's autonomy, ensuring that their rights are protected, their choices respected, and their voices heard.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Stacey Knoell (D)

1) Voting Rights and Electoral Reform

2) Healthcare Access and Affordability

3) Social Equity and Inclusion

Stacey Knoell (D)

1) Voting Rights and Electoral Reform

2) Healthcare Access and Affordability

3) Social Equity and Inclusion

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Stacey Knoell (D)

I believe elected officials need to have a willingness to engage in discussion on topics and have the ability to find common ground and compromise.

Stacey Knoell (D)

I believe elected officials need to have a willingness to engage in discussion on topics and have the ability to find common ground and compromise.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Stacey Knoell (D)

I understand that few issues are completely black and white. I understand that most issues involve nuance and that discussion and compromise are not bad words.

Stacey Knoell (D)

I understand that few issues are completely black and white. I understand that most issues involve nuance and that discussion and compromise are not bad words.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Stacey Knoell (D)

The core responsibility is to legislate with compassion and to speak for the people who cannot speak for themselves.

Stacey Knoell (D)

The core responsibility is to legislate with compassion and to speak for the people who cannot speak for themselves.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Stacey Knoell (D)

My life looks the way it does because countless men and women fought, bled, and died for the rights I enjoy today. I do not take any of that for granted, especially when it is clear some would like to take back those rights. I often say that I'm trying to be a good ancestor. I want my daughters' lives, and the families they may have in the future, to enjoy the same rights I have now and live in an even more equitable and civil society. In all of this, I want to be a part of moving the community forward, not taking us backward to a more restrictive and oppressive past.

Stacey Knoell (D)

My life looks the way it does because countless men and women fought, bled, and died for the rights I enjoy today. I do not take any of that for granted, especially when it is clear some would like to take back those rights. I often say that I'm trying to be a good ancestor. I want my daughters' lives, and the families they may have in the future, to enjoy the same rights I have now and live in an even more equitable and civil society. In all of this, I want to be a part of moving the community forward, not taking us backward to a more restrictive and oppressive past.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Stacey Knoell (D)

I was in 8th grade when the Challenger shuttle disaster happened. I recall it took a while before we understood that we had just watched the shuttle explode.

Stacey Knoell (D)

I was in 8th grade when the Challenger shuttle disaster happened. I recall it took a while before we understood that we had just watched the shuttle explode.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Stacey Knoell (D)

My first job was as a lifeguard at a public pool in Kansas City, Kansas. Lifeguarding and teaching swim lessons were my go-to summer jobs all through high school.

Stacey Knoell (D)

My first job was as a lifeguard at a public pool in Kansas City, Kansas. Lifeguarding and teaching swim lessons were my go-to summer jobs all through high school.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Stacey Knoell (D)

The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. It is fiercely beautiful. It was the first book I stopped reading a few pages before the last because I didn't want the story to end. (I did finish it.)

Stacey Knoell (D)

The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. It is fiercely beautiful. It was the first book I stopped reading a few pages before the last because I didn't want the story to end. (I did finish it.)

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Stacey Knoell (D)

The ideal relationship is as two branches of a three-branch government. Ideally, they work as a check and balance to each other, but with the ultimate goal of helping the people of the state.

Stacey Knoell (D)

The ideal relationship is as two branches of a three-branch government. Ideally, they work as a check and balance to each other, but with the ultimate goal of helping the people of the state.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Stacey Knoell (D)

The shift in population from a rural to urban community as well as an increasingly diverse population, while some segments of the population resist both of those coming realities. There will be a tension between those who do not want the state to change and those who are changing the state.

Stacey Knoell (D)

The shift in population from a rural to urban community as well as an increasingly diverse population, while some segments of the population resist both of those coming realities. There will be a tension between those who do not want the state to change and those who are changing the state.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Stacey Knoell (D)

I believe some exposure to the state level political environment is helpful, yes.

Stacey Knoell (D)

I believe some exposure to the state level political environment is helpful, yes.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Stacey Knoell (D)

Relationships with other legislators, including ones of differing political parties, is key so legislators see one another as people, not just as “the other”.

Stacey Knoell (D)

Relationships with other legislators, including ones of differing political parties, is key so legislators see one another as people, not just as “the other”.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Stacey Knoell (D)

Governor Laura Kelly and Sen. Dinah Sykes

Stacey Knoell (D)

Governor Laura Kelly and Sen. Dinah Sykes

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Stacey Knoell (D)

No

Stacey Knoell (D)

No

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Stacey Knoell (D)

Many people have expressed their fear that the country is sliding away from Democracy and a stance that we should love people for who they are. It is impacting to hear how many love this country and long for it to live up to its ideals when that is not what they see around them. I am all the more eager to represent them in the legislature because they are losing hope that the government is something that can be helpful or good.

Stacey Knoell (D)

Many people have expressed their fear that the country is sliding away from Democracy and a stance that we should love people for who they are. It is impacting to hear how many love this country and long for it to live up to its ideals when that is not what they see around them. I am all the more eager to represent them in the legislature because they are losing hope that the government is something that can be helpful or good.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

Stacey Knoell (D)

Only if the legislative oversight group is evenly balanced in political affiliation. When the oversight committee is severely lopsided in affiliation, the results are also lopsided.

Stacey Knoell (D)

Only if the legislative oversight group is evenly balanced in political affiliation. When the oversight committee is severely lopsided in affiliation, the results are also lopsided.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

Stacey Knoell (D)

The CROWN Act, which seeks to add language to the existing anti-discrimination law to include hairstyles related to one’s ancestry or heritage.

Stacey Knoell (D)

The CROWN Act, which seeks to add language to the existing anti-discrimination law to include hairstyles related to one’s ancestry or heritage.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Stacey Knoell (D)

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate, Greater Kansas City Women's Political Caucus

Stacey Knoell (D)

Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate, Greater Kansas City Women's Political Caucus

What committees interest you?

Stacey Knoell (D)

Commerce, Confirmation Oversight, Local Government, Transparency and Ethics

Stacey Knoell (D)

Commerce, Confirmation Oversight, Local Government, Transparency and Ethics

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Stacey Knoell (D)

I believe no government is above the need for transparency and accountability.

Stacey Knoell (D)

I believe no government is above the need for transparency and accountability.

Would a state ballot initiative process be good or bad for your state?

Stacey Knoell (D)

At the current time a state ballot initiative process would be good for Kansas, as it would allow Kansans to speak from the ballot box so that their elected officials could hear the will of the people.

Stacey Knoell (D)

At the current time a state ballot initiative process would be good for Kansas, as it would allow Kansans to speak from the ballot box so that their elected officials could hear the will of the people.

Kansas Senate District 35

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for Kansas State Senate District 35

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		TJ Rose (R)	52.8	23,088
		Jason Anderson (D)	47.2	20,664

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 43,752
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Race information
Jason Anderson (D) and TJ Rose (R) ran in the open race. Anderson wasthe vice president of engineering at Elysium Health. Rose was the vice president of marketing and sales at Aspire.

District information

• As of Oct. 9, 2024, CNalysis rated Senate District 35 as Toss-Up. According to that analysis, former President Donald Trump (R) would have won the district under the current map by a margin of 2.2 percentage points in 2020.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Jason Anderson (D)

I believe quality public education is the cornerstone of any thriving community, and it's through our schools that we are able to sustain prosperity for generations.

All residents of Kansas deserve access to affordable healthcare, which is why we must expand Medicaid coverage.

Inflation in recent years has created too large of a burden on our property taxes, particularly for long-term residents. This is true in urban counties, and in rural counties. We can find solutions to provide direct relief.

TJ Rose (R)

Lower taxes and regulations so the economy prospers.

Successful schools so your kids can reach their fullest potential, Kansas' great teachers are fulfilled in their careers, and tax payers receive a good return on their investment in education.

I will be tough on crime so you can live in peace.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Jason Anderson (D)

Public education, Medicaid expansion, Tax policy, Reproductive freedom, Job creation

Jason Anderson (D)

Public education, Medicaid expansion, Tax policy, Reproductive freedom, Job creation

TJ Rose (R)

I am passionate about making Kansas the best state in the nation to pursue the American Dream. I am a statesman who will work across the aisle to benefit all Kansans, regardless of who gets the credit. Let's create a business environment that enables our state to compete against other states and win. Let's make Kansas the best state in the nation for families to thrive. Let's make Kansas a top-ten state in the nation in education. Let's solve the social issues impacting our state such as human trafficking, the foster care system, homelessness, fentanyl, etc. Let's make Kansas the safest state in the nation. All of this to say, let's make Kansas the best state in the nation to pursue the American Dream.

TJ Rose (R)

I am passionate about making Kansas the best state in the nation to pursue the American Dream. I am a statesman who will work across the aisle to benefit all Kansans, regardless of who gets the credit. Let's create a business environment that enables our state to compete against other states and win. Let's make Kansas the best state in the nation for families to thrive. Let's make Kansas a top-ten state in the nation in education. Let's solve the social issues impacting our state such as human trafficking, the foster care system, homelessness, fentanyl, etc. Let's make Kansas the safest state in the nation. All of this to say, let's make Kansas the best state in the nation to pursue the American Dream.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Jason Anderson (D)

Leaders Eat Last, by Simon Sinek.

Jason Anderson (D)

Leaders Eat Last, by Simon Sinek.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Jason Anderson (D)

In my experience, the most effective leaders are those who are interested in listening to diverse perspectives and finding common ground. Democracy is about progress, never reaching perfection; our elected officials should hold this sense of pragmatic idealism at heart.

The essence of effective leadership, particularly in public office, lies in the ability to listen actively and empathetically to diverse perspectives. An elected official must prioritize understanding the many voices within their community, embracing diversity as a source of strength rather than division. This approach is crucial in identifying shared values and finding common ground, even amidst seemingly insurmountable differences.

Moreover, I believe in the principle of pragmatic idealism. Democracy is an ongoing journey toward a more perfect union, a process of continual improvement. Our elected officials should embody this dynamic, adopting a forward-looking mindset that balances visionary goals with practical realities. They should be driven not just by the desire to advance their own ideals but by a commitment to serve the common good, adapting and evolving as the needs of their constituents and society change.

Ultimately, the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, transparency, and accountability. These principles ensure that leaders remain true to their word, open in their actions, and answerable to the people they serve. Together, these qualities foster trust, encourage civic engagement, and build a stronger, more resilient democracy.

Jason Anderson (D)

In my experience, the most effective leaders are those who are interested in listening to diverse perspectives and finding common ground. Democracy is about progress, never reaching perfection; our elected officials should hold this sense of pragmatic idealism at heart.

The essence of effective leadership, particularly in public office, lies in the ability to listen actively and empathetically to diverse perspectives. An elected official must prioritize understanding the many voices within their community, embracing diversity as a source of strength rather than division. This approach is crucial in identifying shared values and finding common ground, even amidst seemingly insurmountable differences.

Moreover, I believe in the principle of pragmatic idealism. Democracy is an ongoing journey toward a more perfect union, a process of continual improvement. Our elected officials should embody this dynamic, adopting a forward-looking mindset that balances visionary goals with practical realities. They should be driven not just by the desire to advance their own ideals but by a commitment to serve the common good, adapting and evolving as the needs of their constituents and society change.

Ultimately, the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, transparency, and accountability. These principles ensure that leaders remain true to their word, open in their actions, and answerable to the people they serve. Together, these qualities foster trust, encourage civic engagement, and build a stronger, more resilient democracy.

TJ Rose (R)

Integrity. Wisdom. Kindness. Compassion. Grace. Empathy. Hope. Joy. Humility. Innovation. Courage. Strength. Love. Patience. Gentleness. Goodness.

TJ Rose (R)

Integrity. Wisdom. Kindness. Compassion. Grace. Empathy. Hope. Joy. Humility. Innovation. Courage. Strength. Love. Patience. Gentleness. Goodness.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Jason Anderson (D)

Others would describe me as thoughtful, rational, analytical, and sincere. Thoughtfulness ensures I consider the long-term impact of decisions. A rational approach keeps me grounded in facts, essential for navigating complex policy landscapes. My analytical ability allows me to dissect issues and forecast the outcomes of solutions, ensuring policies are both practical and beneficial. Sincerity, the cornerstone of trust, ensures open and honest communication, fostering a genuine connection with constituents.

Jason Anderson (D)

Others would describe me as thoughtful, rational, analytical, and sincere. Thoughtfulness ensures I consider the long-term impact of decisions. A rational approach keeps me grounded in facts, essential for navigating complex policy landscapes. My analytical ability allows me to dissect issues and forecast the outcomes of solutions, ensuring policies are both practical and beneficial. Sincerity, the cornerstone of trust, ensures open and honest communication, fostering a genuine connection with constituents.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Jason Anderson (D)

Our oath is to the Constitution of the state of Kansas. The Kansas Constitution Bill of Rights gives all political power to the people of Kansas. And so, our duty is to engage with and represent the interests of our constituents. State Senators have a responsibility to manage the financial affairs of the state for maximum benefit of all. We have a duty to negotiate with others in good faith. We have a responsibility to educate our communities about the work that we do, so that we may ourselves learn what needs to be done.

Jason Anderson (D)

Our oath is to the Constitution of the state of Kansas. The Kansas Constitution Bill of Rights gives all political power to the people of Kansas. And so, our duty is to engage with and represent the interests of our constituents. State Senators have a responsibility to manage the financial affairs of the state for maximum benefit of all. We have a duty to negotiate with others in good faith. We have a responsibility to educate our communities about the work that we do, so that we may ourselves learn what needs to be done.

TJ Rose (R)

Ensuring the constitutional freedoms of all Kansans are protected. Maintaining a responsible state budget, including funding for public schools. Representing the constituents. Creating an environment in which families and businesses can thrive.

TJ Rose (R)

Ensuring the constitutional freedoms of all Kansans are protected. Maintaining a responsible state budget, including funding for public schools. Representing the constituents. Creating an environment in which families and businesses can thrive.

What legacy would you like to leave?

TJ Rose (R)

I would like for Kansas to be known as the best state in the nation to pursue the American Dream. I hope people credit my service in the state legislature with safe communities in which law abiding citizens can live in peace, thriving families and businesses, and successful schools that prepare kids to reach their fullest potential and allow teachers to be fulfilled in their careers.

TJ Rose (R)

I would like for Kansas to be known as the best state in the nation to pursue the American Dream. I hope people credit my service in the state legislature with safe communities in which law abiding citizens can live in peace, thriving families and businesses, and successful schools that prepare kids to reach their fullest potential and allow teachers to be fulfilled in their careers.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Jason Anderson (D)

I remember the tragic explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986 -- I would have been 12 years old at the time, in middle school.

Jason Anderson (D)

I remember the tragic explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986 -- I would have been 12 years old at the time, in middle school.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Jason Anderson (D)

My first job was as a computer programmer, working with one of my high school teachers to make a game for 9th and 10th graders to teach geometry principles. I had been programming for many years already as a hobby, but that was the first moment I realized there were larger opportunities. That project lasted for about 6 months.

Jason Anderson (D)

My first job was as a computer programmer, working with one of my high school teachers to make a game for 9th and 10th graders to teach geometry principles. I had been programming for many years already as a hobby, but that was the first moment I realized there were larger opportunities. That project lasted for about 6 months.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Jason Anderson (D)

"Snow Crash" by Neal Stephenson. It's a visionary exploration of a future where technology deeply intertwines with every aspect of society. I've always enjoyed Neal Stephenson's writing style; this novel is intricate and complex, delving into the implications of rapid technological advancements on society, governance, and individual freedom.

Jason Anderson (D)

"Snow Crash" by Neal Stephenson. It's a visionary exploration of a future where technology deeply intertwines with every aspect of society. I've always enjoyed Neal Stephenson's writing style; this novel is intricate and complex, delving into the implications of rapid technological advancements on society, governance, and individual freedom.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Jason Anderson (D)

I listen to a LOT of music, so no single track gets stuck for very long. I've been looping Connor Price for a bit though, and Portugal. The Man.

Jason Anderson (D)

I listen to a LOT of music, so no single track gets stuck for very long. I've been looping Connor Price for a bit though, and Portugal. The Man.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

Jason Anderson (D)

Even when the governor and state legislature are from the same party, the shared mission remains to find common ground and to pursue progress. Sometimes, this is collaborative; sometimes, it is conflicted. But ideally, the two parties are able to listen to and prioritize the needs of the state.

Jason Anderson (D)

Even when the governor and state legislature are from the same party, the shared mission remains to find common ground and to pursue progress. Sometimes, this is collaborative; sometimes, it is conflicted. But ideally, the two parties are able to listen to and prioritize the needs of the state.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Jason Anderson (D)

The Kansas public education funding formula expires during the next Senate term, and will be a major topic of debate that impacts every school and community for the decade to come. It is a critically important topic that shapes not only our schools but also the rest of the state budget.

Economic diversification and job creation is also key to the long-term prosperity of our state. As the global workplace evolves, Kansas must provide opportunities beyond traditional sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. Attracting and retaining emerging industries, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting small businesses will be essential for job creation and economic resilience.

Managing water resources sustainably and addressing environmental challenges, including climate change impacts on agriculture, will be an increasingly difficult issue.

Jason Anderson (D)

The Kansas public education funding formula expires during the next Senate term, and will be a major topic of debate that impacts every school and community for the decade to come. It is a critically important topic that shapes not only our schools but also the rest of the state budget.

Economic diversification and job creation is also key to the long-term prosperity of our state. As the global workplace evolves, Kansas must provide opportunities beyond traditional sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. Attracting and retaining emerging industries, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting small businesses will be essential for job creation and economic resilience.

Managing water resources sustainably and addressing environmental challenges, including climate change impacts on agriculture, will be an increasingly difficult issue.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Jason Anderson (D)

One challenge unique to the state legislator is there will always be people and organizations that know more about a subject than the legislature. Where people can be specialists, the legislature most respond to all challenges. A truly effective legislator, then, must first be good at learning and making decisions without the benefit of deep expertise. That sort of wisdom develops from a lifetime of being challenged and learning, while past political experience only helps with the particular skills of working within the legislative process.

Having experience in government or politics can be helpful for state legislators, but it's not the only thing that matters. Being a good legislator means dealing with many different issues and making complex decisions. The job requires the ability to learn quickly and make smart choices, even when you're not an expert in every topic.

People from different backgrounds can be great legislators because they bring new ideas and ways of solving problems. Whether someone has worked in business, education, healthcare, or community service, they can offer valuable insights.

Jason Anderson (D)

One challenge unique to the state legislator is there will always be people and organizations that know more about a subject than the legislature. Where people can be specialists, the legislature most respond to all challenges. A truly effective legislator, then, must first be good at learning and making decisions without the benefit of deep expertise. That sort of wisdom develops from a lifetime of being challenged and learning, while past political experience only helps with the particular skills of working within the legislative process.

Having experience in government or politics can be helpful for state legislators, but it's not the only thing that matters. Being a good legislator means dealing with many different issues and making complex decisions. The job requires the ability to learn quickly and make smart choices, even when you're not an expert in every topic.

People from different backgrounds can be great legislators because they bring new ideas and ways of solving problems. Whether someone has worked in business, education, healthcare, or community service, they can offer valuable insights.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Jason Anderson (D)

I believe all jobs benefit from building relationships with your peers. For state legislators, it's absolutely critical. Designing and negotiating proposed legislation takes a consensus of the legislature if you want it to actually become law and have an impact in the world.

Jason Anderson (D)

I believe all jobs benefit from building relationships with your peers. For state legislators, it's absolutely critical. Designing and negotiating proposed legislation takes a consensus of the legislature if you want it to actually become law and have an impact in the world.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Jason Anderson (D)

I have no plans or intention of running for a different office.

Jason Anderson (D)

I have no plans or intention of running for a different office.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

TJ Rose (R)

Kansas Chamber. U.S. Congressman Tracey Mann.

TJ Rose (R)

Kansas Chamber. U.S. Congressman Tracey Mann.

What committees interest you?

Jason Anderson (D)

The Senate committees on Education, Commerce, Financial Institutions and Insurance, and Public Health and Welfare are all areas where I feel confident I would be able to quickly apply my personal expertise to the benefit of Kansans. The Joint Committee on Information Technology is also very relevant, and an opportunity to put my 30 years of work experience in the tech industry to use.

Jason Anderson (D)

The Senate committees on Education, Commerce, Financial Institutions and Insurance, and Public Health and Welfare are all areas where I feel confident I would be able to quickly apply my personal expertise to the benefit of Kansans. The Joint Committee on Information Technology is also very relevant, and an opportunity to put my 30 years of work experience in the tech industry to use.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Jason Anderson (D)

I believe that transparency builds trust. Transparency alone can't provide accountability, as you also need systems and and a commitment to use them, but it's important for the work of the public good to be done in the light.

Jason Anderson (D)

I believe that transparency builds trust. Transparency alone can't provide accountability, as you also need systems and and a commitment to use them, but it's important for the work of the public good to be done in the light.

TJ Rose (R)

I believe government should be efficient and transparent.

TJ Rose (R)

I believe government should be efficient and transparent.

Primary

Kansas State Senate primary 2024
Incumbents are marked with an (i) after their name. = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
Office	Democratic	Republican	Other
District 1	No candidates filed for the Democratic primary	Dennis Pyle (i) Craig Bowser   John Eplee
District 2	Marci Francisco (i) Christina Haswood	David G. Miller
District 3	Dena Sattler	Rick Kloos (i)
District 4	David Haley (i) Ephren Taylor III	No candidates filed for the Republican primary
District 5	Jeff Pittman (i)	Jeff Klemp Echo Van Meteren
District 6	Pat Pettey (i)	Tabitha S. Burt
District 7	Ethan Corson (i)	Dave Dannov
District 8	Cindy Holscher (i)	Benee' Hudson
District 9	Norman Mallicoat	Beverly Gossage (i) Bryan Zesiger
District 10	Andrew Mall	Mike Thompson (i)
District 11	Karen Thurlow	Kellie Warren (i)
District 12	No candidates filed for the Democratic primary	Caryn Tyson (i) Stetson Kern
District 13	Austin B. Stapleton	Tim Shallenburger (i) Sam Owen
District 14	No candidates filed for the Democratic primary	Michael Fagg (i)
District 15	Jerry Reeves	Virgil Peck, Jr. (i)
District 16	Sasha Islam	Ty Masterson (i)
District 17	Lillian Lingenfelter	Mike Argabright David Schneider
District 18	Matthew Robin	Kenny Titus
District 19	Vic Miller Patrick Schmidt ShaMecha King Simms	Cynthia Smith Tyler Wible
District 20	Candace Ayars	Brenda Dietrich (i) Joshua Powell
District 21	Dinah Sykes (i)	No candidates filed for the Republican primary
District 22	Usha Reddi (i)	Brad Starnes
District 23	Stacey Knoell	Adam Thomas
District 24	John Baker	J.R. Claeys (i)
District 25	Mary Ware (i)	Keenen Smith
District 26	Raymond H. Shore Jr.	Chase Blasi (i) J.C. Moore
District 27	Jennifer Herington	Joe Claeys
District 28	No candidates filed for the Democratic primary	Mike Petersen (i)
District 29	Oletha Faust-Goudeau (i)	No candidates filed for the Republican primary
District 30	Richard Smith	Renee Erickson (i)
District 31	Jason Miller	Stephen Owens
District 32	Lawrence Moreno   Michael Soetaert	Larry Alley (i)
District 33	Matthew Westenfeld	Tory Marie Blew John Sturn
District 34	Shanna Henry	Bob Fee   Michael Murphy
District 35	Jason Anderson	TJ Rose
District 36	No candidates filed for the Democratic primary	Elaine Bowers (i) Robert Bonanata
District 37	Sherry Giebler	Douglas Shane
District 38	Jose Lara	Ronald Ryckman (i)
District 39	Isidro Marino	Bill Clifford
District 40	No candidates filed for the Democratic primary	Rick Billinger (i)

Party control

See also: Partisan composition of state senates and State government trifectas

Kansas State Senate
Party		As of November 5, 2024	After November 6, 2024
	Democratic Party	11	9
	Republican Party	29	31
Total		40	40

Incumbents who were not re-elected

See also: Annual State Legislative Competitiveness Report: Vol. 14, 2024

Two incumbents lost in general elections. From 2010 to 2022, the average number of defeated incumbents in each general election cycle was 1.7.

Name	Party	Office
Jeff Pittman	Democratic	District 5
Usha Reddi	Democratic	District 22

Incumbents defeated in primaries

See also: Incumbents defeated in state legislative elections, 2024

One incumbent lost in a primary. From 2010 to 2022, the average number of defeated incumbents in each cycle was 7.3.

Name	Party	Office
Dennis Pyle	Republican	Senate District 1

Retiring incumbents

Eleven incumbents did not file for re-election in 2024. This was the highest number of retirements since Ballotpedia started tracking in 2010. Those incumbents were:

Name	Party	Office
Tom Holland	Democratic	District 3
Jeff Longbine	Republican	District 17
Kristen O'Shea	Republican	District 18
Robert Olson	Republican	District 23
Dan Kerschen	Republican	District 26
Carolyn McGinn	Republican	District 31
Alicia Straub	Republican	District 33
Mark Steffen	Republican	District 34
Rick Wilborn	Republican	District 35
Molly Baumgardner	Republican	District 37
John Doll	Republican	District 39

Primary election competitiveness

See also: Primary election competitiveness in state and federal government, 2024

This section contains data on state legislative primary election competitiveness in Kansas. These totals include data from all regularly-scheduled House and Senate elections. For more information about Ballotpedia's competitiveness analysis of state legislative elections, please click here.

Post-filing deadline analysis

The following analysis covers all state legislative districts up for election in KS in 2024. Information below was calculated on July 18, 2024, and may differ from information shown in the table above due to candidate replacements and withdrawals after that time.

Kansas had 41 contested state legislative primaries on August 6, 2024. That was the fewest contested primaries in years that all 165 seats of the state legislature were up for election since Ballotpedia started tracking in 2012.