A key election many Kansans will have a watchful eye on Tuesday is the race for governor.
On the Republican side, current Governor Jeff Colyer and Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann are both hopeful to earn the Republican nomination in the primary election. Lt. Gov. Mann tells KVOE News that Kansans have had a good sample size of how Colyer would lead moving forward since taking over for former Gov. Sam Brownback earlier this year.
Colyer and Mann recently wrapped up a two-week, 105 county tour of the state, hearing from constituents along the way and says they are gaining momentum.
The Republican field also includes Colyer’s main opponent, Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who picked up a major endorsement Monday when President Donald Trump tweeted his support for him.
Kris Kobach, a strong and early supporter of mine, is running for Governor of the Great State of Kansas. He is a fantastic guy who loves his State and our Country – he will be a GREAT Governor and has my full & total Endorsement! Strong on Crime, Border & Military. VOTE TUESDAY!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2018
“Kris Kobach, a strong and early supporter of mine, is running for Governor of the Great State of Kansas. He is a fantastic guy who loves his State and our Country – he will be a GREAT Governor and has my full & total Endorsement! Strong on Crime, Border & Military.”
In addition, the Republican race includes former Emporia senator Jim Barnett, current Insurance Commissioner Ken Selzer, with Patrick Kucera, Tyler Ruzich and Joseph Tutera.
On the Democratic side of the race, Josh Svaty has been making one final push ahead of the primary. He was in Emporia Monday speaking with constituents over lunch at Billy Sims BBQ.
Svaty says Democrats will have an uphill battle, especially in the First Congressional District. Despite likely second-place finishes in Johnson, Shawnee and Sedgwick counties, Svaty contends his campaign has enough momentum especially in southeastern Kansas, Emporia, Manhattan, Hutchinson, Salina and Dodge City to carry them to a win in the primary.
Svaty is part of a crowded Democrat field that includes Topeka lawmaker Laura Kelly, former Wichita mayor Carl Brewer, Olathe physician Dr. Arden Andersen and high school student Jack Bergeson.
Independent candidate Greg Orman, who is not officially on the primary ballot has garnered enough support to be on the November general election ballot in Kansas. In a tweet Monday afternoon, he expressed his thanks to Kansans.
Delivered! Proud to submit over 10,000 signatures & give Kansans another option on the ballot this November. #orrmanforkansas #ksgov #ksleg pic.twitter.com/rZ2bBmOadG
— Orman For Kansas (@OrmanforKansas) August 6, 2018
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and KVOE News will have complete election night coverage after the polls close.
