Republicans Derek Schmidt and Jeff Kahrs both bring government experience to their runs for Congress. Both also bring similar perspectives to their election efforts.
When asked how he plans to distinguish himself from Kahrs in the race for US House Second District, Schmidt told KVOE News this week his name recognition will certainly help.
Schmidt served as the state’s attorney general for 12 years, while Kahrs has also worked as a Health and Human Services regional director under former president Donald Trump, an administrator for the Kansas Department for Children and Families and as an advisor to former Kansas Congressman Todd Tiahrt.
Both are running as conservatives, meaning emphasis points like a reduction in federal spending, reintroducing Trump administration policies and traditional family values.
Meanwhile, the Democrat half of the race involves Matt Kleinmann, a community developer in Wyandotte County and former University of Kansas basketball player. Elgin “Eli” Woody, a Kansas City resident, had been on the ballot but is not anymore.
The interest for the Second District rapidly developed after current Representative Jake LaTurner announced he would not seek a third term.