Earlier this month, I filed for re-election to continue as your State Representative. In my first two terms in the House, we have achieved much; the state is in much better financial shape thanks to restoration of fiscal common sense; KPERs is now being funded to assure secure retirement for state workers; KDOT is advancing on road repairs and improvements; and most importantly, education is now being fully funded and approved by the Kansas Supreme Court. 

But…our work is not yet done. I am running for re-election to expand Medicaid to provide healthcare to the most vulnerable in Kansas, while eliminating the emergency room as primary care (which in turn will lower the cost of care for all of us). We have paid out more than $3 billion in Medicaid taxes and received nothing in return. That must change.

We still need to stop borrowing from the highway fund. We need to reduce the sales tax on food. We must be vigilant to continue a fiscally responsible budget which funds basic services like protecting children in foster care.

There is much more to do. I appreciate your support and vote. Today, I ask you to make a contribution - $5 to $500, every dollar helps – to my campaign. I expect to have a challenger from the right in the primary and the left in the general election. Such is life when you are reasonable in your views – not extreme either way. You can donate online or mail a check to Kessinger4Kansas, 12605 Walmer, OPKS, 66209.
 
Here’s some of the more non-legislative things I’ve been doing over the summer. I hope your summer was equally fun and memorable.