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Fallout from January 6th Continues

7/6/2021

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It's been just over six months since January 6th—and just days after we celebrated our nation’s Independence Day—and the anti-democracy movement in this country continues to grow.

With Republican Governors and State Legislators doing everything possible to limit Democrats from voting, and the Democratic Majority in Washington to this point unable to take steps to at least reduce if not eliminate such action, keeping our democracy is up in the air. How can we in any way assume that this democracy we have is secure and not vulnerable to the actions taking place? If we allow January 6th to be forgotten, consider it no big deal, and on top of that fail to stop the voter suppression so blatantly taking place in states all across the country, the core fundamentals of a democracy are lost and will not simply return.

January 6th, 2021 was not just another day of citizens visiting their Capital and seeing their democracy in action as some politicians are trying to peddle. That day saw American citizens storm the Capital, aroused by Impeached President Trump, to very clearly try to reverse the outcome of the November election. This was done despite all the court denials of any fraud, including from Trump-appointed Judges and the certified results from Republican Secretaries of State declaring President Biden as the rightful winner. If the storming of the Capitol and reversing the presidential results had been successful, the United States would no longer be a democracy.

Minority Senate Leader McConnell is without a doubt the most un-American Congressional leader this country has ever had. I wonder how much things could be different with someone else leading the Republican Caucus. He bluntly and publicly states he wants to do everything possible to keep the Biden Administration from getting anything done, and with the archaic Senate rules, he is well on his way to success with our Senator Roger Marshall right at his side. I want to make it clear there are a few sane Republican members of Congress who publicly state more responsible positions and vote accordingly. There are just not enough of them.

The continuing and crazy hold that Trump still has on so many elected officials is hard to believe but very real. Take our own Republican Congressional delegation. Following Trump’s lead not a word of concern from them in denying January 6th any real bipartisan investigation as if it was not really a big deal.

Topping off all of this, which should horrify any and all Americans, is the action taken in Georgia and Arizona (and spreading to other states, including here in Kansas) that just in case all their voter suppression actions do not deliver the results they want, a new law will allow the Republican controlled legislature to overrule the certified count. Now that is way beyond the pale and one does not have to have any legal training to know that is unconstitutional, undemocratic, and would certify we no longer have a democracy.  
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So how does all of this get stopped and turned around? There are bills introduced by Democrats in Congress that would generally reverse much of this craziness, but getting such legislation passed will not be easy. Given the close partisan makeup of Congress, the very few, if any, Republicans that would help, and the crazy rules of the Senate, success can be achieved but not without strong leadership, all hands on deck, and President Biden’s ties helping in the Senate. 

Maybe most important will be whether the American people wake up to the potential loss of their democracy and make clear such action will be a voting issue come election time. This is not just another partisan fight like we’ve been through many times before. This is the ball game, the whole enchilada, and there will be no second act. Wake up Americans, and together we just might keep our democracy.
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[Photo: Probal Rashid via Getty Images]
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Infrastructure is More than Roads and Bridges

6/17/2021

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My last couple blog posts have centered around infrastructure. It’s an issue I had the privilege to work on and support during my years in public service, and it’s something I feel just as strongly about today—​as one of the most important things we can do to set our future generations up for success.

What needs to be made clear now is that infrastructure goes far beyond roads and bridges. Throughout the course of our history, that definition has changed—​and should continue to change—​over time as our needs evolve. In the late 1800's, the transcontinental railroad connected the country, and it laid the foundation for rail infrastructure development that continues to move people and goods efficiently from coast to coast. In the 1930’s, rural electrification was an infrastructure investment that provided an important utility, improved quality of life, and opened the door for more development in all areas of the country. In the 1950’s, infrastructure meant the Interstate Highway System—​which supported transcontinental travel and commerce. Today, infrastructure must include broadband, housing, elder care and, yes, childcare. Investments that promote more engagement in the economy—​​and support the workforce that makes things happen—​should be what meets the definition of modern infrastructure, needed for growth today and into the future.

I understand why the Republicans are taking the position that President Biden has a lot of “non-traditional” infrastructure in his plan before Congress. Given how, recently, Republicans often live in the past, taking that position should not be a big surprise. They frequently don’t see the big picture, connect the dots, and combined with their typical response of opposing any and all Democratic proposals, we should not in any way be surprised.

I expect there are Democrats who are a little puzzled about the Republicans' resistance given the last major Infrastructure plan was with President Eisenhower and the Interstate Highway Program back in the 1950’s. That effort was focused almost exclusively on much of the concrete we drive on today—​and for the cross-country connections made and the positive impact on the economy.

What makes today so different is all the changes that have happened in the last sixty years to make today very challenging and the demand for new approaches very real. Today, broadband (for which there is some Republican support) has to be part of any infrastructure package because fully connecting the country takes much more than just roads and airports. Combined with our climate change challenges, dealing with the advancement of electric cars, and in concentrated urban areas much more efficient rail transportation, shouldn’t we be pleased that Biden rightfully looks at infrastructure needs more broadly?

Look at all the countries that in one area or another have caught up with us on infrastructure just in the last 30 years. China obviously leads the pack. But to put that in perspective, if you go back to the 1980’s when our Interstate Highway System was complete, on my 1982 visit to Henan Province, we rode on several dirt and sand roads that connected population centers. In fact, support and partnership on infrastructure from the Kansas Department of Transportation was included as an original component of our Sister-State relationship with Henan Province, which was established during our visits in the 1980’s. Now, contrast that with today, where China has surpassed us with very modern transportation systems that include high speed rail and airports that put ours to shame.

But much of the real investment Biden wants to make is in families as part of this program, which is much more than just raising some folks out of poverty and paying a fair wage. He knows that our current education system needs an upgrade to provide a quality workforce with the skills needed for us to compete in a fast changing world. He also knows that the availability of high quality childcare will be a must for many families to participate in the workforce of tomorrow.  

Fortunately, there are communities stepping up to take some action on their own. I call your attention to what Lindsborg, Kansas is doing. They knew in many ways that they had a very attractive community with much of the extras that make the quality of life high. But they learned from their research the problem holding them back from growth was the lack of quality child care. Located between McPherson and Salina they knew the jobs existed but the families who were looking to locate in Lindsborg wanted the quality childcare that currently was not there. More detail can be found in an article “Nurturing Prosperity” in The Journal, published by the Kansas Leadership Center in Winter 2021. It provides a great example of how a community can step up to help meet needs, improve quality of life, and enable more growth.

Maybe what surprises me the most, not really, is much of the corporate community and particularly the wealthy who don't want to help pay for Biden’s plan, when in the end they will be the ones who likely benefit the most. Remember, they got the big Trump tax cut and now with Biden’s plan, yes, they will pay more but not fully back to the level prior to the cut. Adding salt to the wound, the previous administration cut the Internal Revenue Service budget so much that they do not have the staff to collect all the taxes that are due. Now combine that with some of the most wealthy, including corporations, who currently pay no taxes. Chew on that for a while.

Biden’s package for building back better is non-traditional but reflects his understanding of the changes and the challenges we face—​and what we must do to have the future we want for coming generations. Hopefully, those who are savvy, investment-wise Republicans can send a message to their elected Republicans that infrastructure is not partisan and that the time is now to do what is smart, period.
Childcare is Infrastructure
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The Rough Road to Bipartisanship

5/24/2021

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I know talking about the good old days comes across often as just talk. But there are clearly documented examples that we need to remember before we just assume that the often stupidity of our current times becomes totally acceptable. For example, I am old enough to clearly remember the late 50’s when Republican President Eisenhower, working with Democrats LBJ and Speaker Sam Rayburn, created the Interstate Highway System—​the last, yes the last, major infrastructure package. Now, today, the Biden Administration has a bold, modern package on the table that takes major first steps to get us on the path to a well-structured future. 

President Biden has had Senators from both Parties over to the White House to try to find common ground on his infrastructure package. There have been positive Republican comments about the effort, but clearly they want a much smaller investment and one focused on concrete and asphalt, that ignores how far behind we are. This old thinking is out of touch with modern needs. There is Republican support for broadband expansion, something desperately needed, but only as part of a much much smaller package. Then there is Senate Minority Leader McConnell, who in the end will likely want no Republican support for any package that the President wants.

Trying to put this in context with history, I share three historical examples, leaving you to see where we might be tomorrow without major investments being made now. If President Eisenhower had thought like Republicans of today, his highway infrastructure package might have been the creation of passing lanes, fixing potholes and, of course, no interstate highways. If President Truman had not successfully sold the Marshall Plan, playing a major role in rebuilding Europe following WWll, how much bigger and more powerful would Russia be today? And if President Kennedy had not pushed the space program, think of all the technology advances we would have at least delayed for decades.  

I am obviously not suggesting that the minority Republicans in the Senate should just accept the fact they are the minority caucus, admittedly by a thread, and roll over waiting for their return to the majority. What I am suggesting is that they consider voting somewhat along the line of what Republicans back home want. National polls now show strong support from Republicans for Biden’s Infrastructure plan to help the economy and build it back better. There are 50 Republican Senators and, at the moment, not one supports the package-all because of McConnell, their crazy tie to Trump, and their loyalty to the richest Americans. 

I know from my own experience how important bipartisan support is for leading significant change as well as creating new directions that benefit the state’s overall interests and serve individual and family needs. Success for Kansas came in the 80’s from having both Democratic and Republican support for proper funding of public education, approving a major state infrastructure package, reforming the state banking system, creating a state water plan, implementing the first state effort on business development and job creation with a new Department of Economic Development (now called Commerce), and giving the citizens the opportunity to vote on several key constitutional changes that passed overwhelmingly.

So how did we lose our willingness to put the state and country first? I suppose when wedge issues became such a key to Republican strategy things changed. Abortion, gun control, and immigration today tend to dictate Republican strategy, not because they should lead the agenda, but because they divide people and lead to Republican political success. 

As a wild example of how far Republicans in Kansas have changed, when the Equal Rights Amendment was sent to the states for approval in the early 70’s, I was there in the legislature. Kansas was a very early adopter and approved the amendment—yes, led by Republican leadership. That simply would not happen today.

So what needs to happen to have hope for common sense to return and take the first significant steps towards addressing the challenges we face? My only thought that makes any sense and could possibly happen is for Biden’s package to get passed by whatever means possible, that the public reaction is quite positive, that the Democrats hold both Houses in the 2022 election, and Biden is reelected in 2024. That might get the attention of Republican leaders. For, as long as wedge issues prevail for the Republicans, I see little chance in the near future of any real progress being made on climate change, infrastructure, and the other endless challenges we face. I know this reads partisan but, for me, without Biden succeeding, these key changes and investments will not be made, and the price we pay will set us back dramatically for decades.
Oval Office Meeting on Infrastructure
[Photo: Doug Mills/The New York Times]
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Federal Infrastructure Bill Past Due

4/19/2021

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Given that the last major national infrastructure package was the Interstate Highway System under President Eisenhower, partnering with Speaker Sam Rayburn and Senate Majority Leader Lyndon Johnson, both Democrats, one would think that President Biden’s infrastructure package just might be needed. These are needs that, if not addressed, will have huge negative consequences and particularly for states like Kansas, which do not have the resources to go it alone.

When it comes to maintaining infrastructure, we know there are higher costs down the road when we are not regularly reinvesting, and as a nation, we are falling behind on basic transportation needs as well as the important infrastructure of the future, like Broadband. This means the total price tag of such a bill will be high, but that is largely because it is clearly past time for national infrastructure investment.

The Republican-led Kansas Legislature has done some good on infrastructure, but there has been no help in Washington from the Republican members of our delegation.

Republicans in the Kansas Legislature have generally been positive about the Kelly Administration's efforts in Economic Development, and this includes another ten-year infrastructure program, the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Plan. Of particular significance is the investment for Broadband, which is built into that plan for highways and bridges. No question, that is positive for many of our rural areas and small towns that are today without Broadband. But to really deliver on our total demands for Broadband, we need what President Biden is proposing in his infrastructure plan, and our Republican Congressional delegation needs to find ways to help.

Given the recent investments the state has made on Broadband, it's clear that from the state-level, Kansas is ready to put these dollars to work right now, in order to improve internet access statewide.

The value of expanding access to Broadband cannot be overemphasized for the best interest of Kansas collectively but most seriously for those areas not now served. Quality of public education, particularly in sparsely populated areas, can really be enhanced. Likewise, in delivering needed health care, Broadband would make a real difference. But maybe most important is the value Broadband will be to existing businesses and attracting startups that are likely non-starters without it.

We should not let our Republican delegation in Washington get away with hiding behind any concern about raising taxes or, God forbid, raising the national debt given their record on both issues in recent years. Their lack of consistency is off the charts. They had no problem borrowing a couple trillion for Trump’s pandemic package not that long after cutting the taxes of the richest individual taxpayers as well as corporations that often find ways to pay nothing and will further benefit financially from implementation of the Biden Infrastructure plan. But, despite all this, Republicans have already vowed not to cast a single supportive vote to address our clear infrastructure needs.

So why is this contrast with Republicans between D.C. and Kansas so hard to understand? I have given it some thought, and I am down to just one possibility. Maybe the explanation is tied to the actual measurable distance between the constituents and those representing them. D.C. is so far off that the real needs of the people do not rise to the top of priorities like they do in Topeka. I feel confident that most rural Kansas Legislators have constituents raising Broadband deficiencies as a critical priority.

Now, let’s get to the real message. I accept the fact that my making these points directly to our Congressional delegation (with the exception of Congresswoman Davids who is on board) in D.C. has no value or return. So I am reminding all of you who are reading this message that your direct contact by text, email, or phone message, just might get their attention and make a difference. Your efforts would particularly be effective if you can share a specific community or location that would significantly benefit from Washington Broadband help. The need is undeniable, and the time to act is now.
Rural Broadband Infrastructure
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Henry Hollie and the Gettysburg Address

4/1/2021

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As I look back on our collective pandemic experience, when we return to something like the old normal, the one thing I might miss most will be the extraordinary amount of time I have had to read books. This was new to me because, up until the pandemic, work dominated. One book I really enjoyed was John Alter’s, “His Very Best," about former President Jimmy Carter. I share in this blog why I found the book so timely, as well as a direct connection to what I was doing in Topeka during the Carter Administration.

Having lived through the late 70’s and 80’s and, in very modest ways, participating in those historical times, I saw some of the ups and downs of the Carter Administration up close when I was on the Executive Board of the National Governors Association and when I spent time in D.C. Reading Alter’s book, it was fun to be reminded that, on reflection, there is much more good than bad about President Carter and his record. In fact, today, after first placing Carter in the bottom 1/3rd of Presidents, historians now have him in the top third.

Part of the book covers the Camp David Accords, the 13-day effort in 1978 to bring peace between Israel and Egypt after four major wars starting in 1948, a peace that remains today. During this experience, President Carter’s patience was frequently tested in keeping Israel’s Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egypt’s President Anwar el-Sadat at Camp David and from just leaving and giving up, which was frequently close to happening. After about seven days, Carter decided they needed a break. He chose to take them to Gettysburg and the famous battle ground from the Civil War.

As they were walking around the memorial, Begin, a few feet away from Carter and Sadat, started reciting “Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that "all men are created equal." He went on to flawlessly complete the entire Gettysburg Address.

My first reaction, after some shock, was how President Lincoln’s words would fit right into the many challenges we face as a country today. Polar opposite positions on everything from dealing with the pandemic, to the economy, infrastructure, immigration, and election reforms, puts Lincoln’s message “a house divided cannot stand” to the test.

My next thought after reading that reflection was how I knew someone who worked for me who could also recite the Gettysburg Address flawlessly. Henry Hollie at Cedar Crest, the Governor’s residence, could at any appropriate opportunity likewise perfectly recite the Gettysburg Address. Henry Hollie was my everything at Cedar Crest. From greeting and taking care of guests, to making sure events came off smoothly, to helping improve my pool game, to making sure I left Cedar Crest to go to work in a freshly pressed suit. My success as Governor can be attributed to incredible staff, a powerful talented cabinet, and maybe most importantly to the thousands of talented civil servants who in the end delivered the goods. Henry Hollie was a valuable part of that team.
Henry Hollie
Here's a photo of Henry Hollie and I during an event at Cedar Crest. From his ability to flawlessly recite the Gettysburg Address, to the essential functions he served on our team, and his infectious smile, these memories still bring a smile to my face.
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Building a "Big Tent" in Kansas

3/16/2021

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Kansas Democrats currently face a wall in expanding their clout much beyond the current level in the Kansas Legislature. Today, with eleven Democratic Senators and thirty-nine House members, Governor Kelly will need Republican votes to just sustain a veto, and given how far right the Republican caucuses are, that will be a challenge. If you can’t sustain vetoes, then the far right agenda will go into law.    

To expand these numbers and have any real influence, Democrats need to do much much better at identifying and supporting quality Democratic candidates. This will take strong leadership, a willingness to make change, and an understanding that this will not happen in just one election cycle. I know our State Party has a plan to get counties that are not now organized activated, and I strongly support their effort but much more will need to be done.

My push for a more influential Democratic Party is much more than party politics and political gains. It is primarily driven by my concern for the future of Kansas and the fact that the current directions and politics of the far right Republicans do not bode well for the future of our state. We have very serious challenges that must be addressed or our future will continue to be declining population growth, limited opportunities for our young people, and a shortage of jobs and economic viability particularly in many of our rural communities. 

For progress, I think there need to be major adjustments with statewide candidate campaigns, which now tend to focus only on just a few of our larger population centers and leaving the bulk of the counties with little or no attention. Over time, this practice has dramatically decreased Democratic political activity in the bulk of Kansas counties. Yes, there has been success electing Democratic Governors (with just a little more effort in rural counties, Kansas could have elected at least one more), but when legislative numbers remain low, the capacity to actually impact key decisions is limited. Today, Democratic legislators come from only seven counties. That did not used to be the case.

For example, starting with the 1956 election of Democratic Governor George Docking and through the tenure of Governor Joan Finney in 1996 (who was the last Democratic Governor to really campaign across the entire state), on average there were 13 Democratic Senators and 55 Democratic House members. During the Docking-Finney time period, our statewide candidates helped create an environment where a Democratic candidate for the Legislature had a chance, regardless of what area they were from. Consequently, Representative Marvin Barkis and myself became Speakers of the House with support from Democrats from every area of the state and, consequently, some good things got done. Since that time, the average numbers have been 10 Democratic Senators and 42 Democratic House members. 

I also think candidates often focus too much on delivering messages to the base and not enough reaching out to the voters who Democrats need to win. Beyond political organizing and candidate recruitment, the Democratic Party and its representatives must develop an intentional effort to talk with rural residents and identify ways in which we as a party can address effectively those issues and concerns that affect negatively the sustainability and quality of life in rural Kansas. With the right policy messages, Moderate Republicans and Independents should be good targets for persuasion.

Senator Jon Tester of Montana wrote a book called “Grounded,” which I highly recommend for anyone wondering what Democrats need to do to build support and elect more Democrats. His advice on how to make headway in rural areas that we often choose to avoid is: 1. Show up and not just when asked; 2. Be smart with messaging; and 3. Listen, listen to their concerns and learn more about what is going on in the candidate’s district to understand what their issues really are and do not just rely on some statewide strategy. As Tester said, “there is a reason you have two ears and only one mouth.” 

Quoting (page 114) from Molly Ball in her book Pelosi, she instructed her lead recruiter Rahm Emanuel to “find candidates that fit their districts, regardless of ideology.” For example, in 2018, quality Democratic challengers in three conservative Indiana districts were pro-life and pro-gun, but they won. Pelosi took a lot of heat for this approach, but she also was able to become Speaker and be able to pass a more progressive agenda. They recruited candidates to take on kitchen table issues and stand up for working people. Given the minority status Democrats have in Kansas, such advice from Pelosi makes lots of sense. Another example, at the national level some Democrats go after Senator Joe Manchin from West Virginia on some of his more conservative positions, but where would we be without him right now? Mitch McConnell would still be Majority Leader, and now think about the real impact that would have on Covid relief and so many other things that need to be done in the coming year. Though it's easy to complain about some of his positions that you may disagree with, a recent piece in the New York Times argues, "Nothing would help Democrats as much as more Joe Manchins." A larger Democratic majority would certainly help, and it would provide more flexibility for certain members to dissent when they felt it was important for their districts. But the only way to make that possible is to elect more Democrats, regardless of where they're from.

At this point, the dominant Republican Party in Kansas can afford to work for purity and still win. Their years of working to eliminate Moderates has been successful, particularly in primaries, because of their huge voter registration advantage and the political strength of the far right. For Democrats, that is not an option, but we often operate like it is. Being pro-life, for example, is too often used to blackball or ignore some good candidates who could win. Keep in mind that pro-life Democrats played a key role in electing two House majorities, two Speakers (Barkis and Carlin), and as far as I know, pro-life Democrats have always voted against crazy unconstitutional abortion amendments. Instead, there is an opportunity for Democrats to make the case that their policies represent a truly “pro-life” position.

What I am sharing is not an anti-progressive move. It is a recognition that ideologically Kansas is a center-right state. Not accepting this reality dooms Democrats to continued disappointment. We need and should welcome progressive legislators to challenge the system and represent the views of their districts, but I want in the end to have enough Democratic votes to take some positive steps forward. The pattern of just working harder, doing that same thing over and over, and expecting better results has not and will not work.

The question now is, are we as a Democratic Party willing to take the time to make key strategic changes necessary to put us in a position of strength to help lead Kansas to a better future? Is now not the opportunity to reach out to more Moderate Republicans, given the shocking time in which we live with so much division in the Republican Party? And as Democrats, if you need more incentive, this action will help local, statewide, and Congressional candidates as well. This could just be the time, if Democrats are willing to make the changes to not just win, but help pass legislation on issues that will truly make a positive difference for our great state. The door is open now, and the party should be willing to accept any Kansan who wants to be part of the solutions to our state's pressing challenges.
Kansas Capitol Building
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"The Big Lie" Fueling Voter Suppression

3/1/2021

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At every level of government, from the Nation's Capital to individual states including Kansas, with direct impacts on local elections as well, there are currently active efforts to pass voter suppression laws to make it more difficult for some people to vote—efforts with much success likely. The sole purpose of these efforts is to win some elections that would likely be lost without such help. Making it more difficult for some folks to vote has a long history in this country. It took us a long time to even allow Black men and women to vote, and we gradually saw some progress to make voter participation in elections more fair. 

Who is mostly impacted? Voter suppression laws are primarily designed to impact citizens of color, but across the board they disenfranchise anyone who has difficulty voting. Whatever reason that might be, whether tied to the job one has, their living situation, parental responsibilities, some kind of disability, academic commitments, language barriers, business or family challenges, their likelihood of voting can be altered dramatically by the access options provided.

In recent years, several changes have been made to improve access to the polls. These changes include voting by mail, early voting, sufficient number of places to vote, drop boxes, and maybe most importantly, a communication effort to make sure all eligible voters know their options. And we're coming off a 2020 election where more Americans voted than ever before, something you would think would make us all proud. Unbelievably, but true, is that basic efforts to expand voter participation are used by many to claim voter fraud and, most importantly, to justify suppressing the vote.

Proponents of passing voter suppression laws at both the national and state level are folks who know that, without such actions, too many of their candidates would lose. They hide under the false concern of illegal ballots being cast when there is little or no evidence today of any fraud at any level that would have impacted any election. Despite, for example, the Biden-Trump race in Georgia being recounted three times with basically no change and even the Republican Secretary of State certifying the election, claims of fraud continued to be pushed by then President Trump all the way to the riots in the Capitol January 6th and the first speech of his post-presidency, delivered at CPAC. They continue this lie today. And buying into "the big lie" is being used as a type of litmus test, to prove that certain Republicans are truly "with" the Trump program. It's hard to imagine something more damaging than attacking the integrity of U.S. elections as a base-line belief for a major political party.

Trump’s own Attorney General confirmed the election was fair and very well administered nationwide, and there is a general agreement among professionals in both parties that our 2020 elections were run, with rare exceptions, fairly. Some more-than-sixty lawsuits were filed by Trump’s team claiming election fraud in several states that were key in determining the Electoral College victory for Biden. None gained any traction, including several that reached the Supreme Court and in front of Judges who were appointed by President Trump.

What blows me away is all the voters here in Kansas who happily look the other way and accept such discrimination as perfectly acceptable while they hide under outlandish claims of voter fraud. Former Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach made a huge issue of voter fraud, spending state dollars to investigate with no success in the end finding any real problem, other than a few very isolated examples. Then costing the state more money to defend the discriminatory policies put on the books, many of which have been struck down in court. He did, however, manage to secure years of far right government in Kansas and put himself on the radar of the Trump administration, who unsurprisingly loved his anti-democratic ideas.

Modern elections, particularly after the fine-tuning following 2016, are confirmed to be run fair and square by expert and objective viewers. This is why there is a growing shift for most Republicans to push voter suppression as the way for their candidates to win. We live in a country that theoretically believes in "one person one vote" and throughout our history have made strides towards every legal voter having easy access to the ballot box. Why should that not be our practice? 

What needs to happen to stop voter suppression, given Republicans control legislatures and Governors in many state capitals, is for the Biden Administration to introduce a new John Lewis Voting Rights Act setting national standards for voting access and for Congress to pass it. This law would probably be passed by only Democratic votes, but it would counter all the efforts being made by Republicans to suppress the vote and disenfranchise large populations of voters. 

Now to those who say this is all just politics, I am happy to be on the side of believing all eligible voters should have easy access to the voting booth and not be handicapped in any way. How else would we truly insure that the will of the people is determining our government, rather than the other way around? And what credibility would we have in standing up for democracy around the world if we consistently did the opposite here at home? This is directly at the core of who we are as a nation and, most importantly, who we want to be.
Trump speaks at CPAC 2021
Donald Trump delivered his first speech as a former President, a lie-filled tirade at the annual CPAC convention. Chief among his "greatest hits" was the effort to deny the results of the 2020 Presidential election. The crowd enthusiastically cheered "the big lie," as they prepare to do his bidding and push for an agenda of voter suppression, that just might help him get elected in 2024. [Photo: Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images]
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Bringing Trump's Guilt Home to Kansas

2/15/2021

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I think often of the old Chinese Proverb “may you live in interesting times.” And as I think back over now eight decades of living, there have been many times that fit that slogan. Going with my Dad in the morning after milking to pick up a German Prisoner of War to work on the farm certainly fit that bill. I think of the droughts, the floods, the hail, the pressures from bankers to somehow magically make the numbers work. And then all the lucky opportunities in my life for public service and now teaching, have brought many interesting times. But today, “interesting times” just don't fit. We definitely live in a time where our democracy and our Constitution are literally vulnerable.

Americans have had challenges before for sure. The great depression, WWll, and Watergate for example, but during those times there was bi-partisan leadership for dealing with these challenges. Senator Capper, a very conservative Kansas Republican, worked with FDR on much of what had to be done to overcome the great depression. WWll brought us together like never before (or since) with our own General Eisenhower playing a key role. In the Nixon debacle, fellow Republicans, Senator Howard Baker for example, played key roles in holding their Party’s leader accountable. Today with rare exceptions, Republicans are almost totally united in defending whatever President Trump has done or said. Their collective behavior makes surviving as a Democracy, a governance model that has spread around the world, to be the greatest American challenge since the Civil War.

That brings us to the Saturday vote on impeachment. Senator Moran, you were there in the 90’s for a House vote for the Clinton trial on impeachment where lying about sex with a White House Intern rose to the level for you to vote to impeach. Senator Marshall, you were not there, but I think it is fair to assume you would have likewise voted for impeachment and conviction. Given the issue involved then, compared to the actions of Trump in inciting a mob to violence on January 6th, threatening our Democracy, doesn’t that make your votes on the impeachment of former President Trump all the more difficult to defend—false constitutional challenges aside? 

And, Senator Moran, it cannot be ignored that this most recent acquittal vote follows in the wake of your earlier impeachment decision to excuse Trump’s effort to extort a foreign leader and government to create false information for the purpose of influencing this past election. What legal or ethical standard do you apply in making these fundamental decisions affecting our national interest and character? Or do you believe that your perceived interest in political self-preservation and an unrestrained commitment to partisanship must always prevail? 

Obviously, neither of you were seriously bothered by the fact Vice President Pence’s life was under real threat that January 6th day in the Capitol because he was not doing what President Trump wanted (i.e., reversing the vote of the Electoral College). That threat toward Vice President Pence was clearly provoked by Trump talking directly to his followers, taped for the world to see. Trump made it clear that, in his opinion, his Vice President had the opportunity and the need to act and have the courage to unconstitutionally invalidate the election.

Maybe most surprising is that after you were both there, front row and all, and after getting over I assume the initial shock of having your own lives at serious risk, you two cast votes as if it were no big deal that the Vice President and members of Congress, including the Speaker, were targeted to be assassinated and that the lives of police officers were threatened and lost.

What would a Republican President in the very last days of his or her administration have to do to get your concern? How many people, for example, would have to die due to the President’s instigation? How more threatened would our Constitution and Democracy have to be for you to vote for conviction? Keep in mind, the former President’s defense focused almost exclusively on Constitutional grounds with little or nothing on his innocence for January 6th. In fact, Leader McConnell used his speech after the vote to make the case that Trump was in fact guilty, before explaining his own vote to acquit, based on the situation he created by not taking up the case until after Trump's term had ended. This defense was so paper thin that it was even surprising to hear from the mouth of McConnell, who spent four years looking the other way on Trump's conduct in order to accomplish his singular focus on confirming his often totally unqualified judicial nominees. To say it's been a low point for the GOP would be an enormous understatement, and you Kansas Senators have been right there to cheer it on.

Setting aside all of the above, how do you see your actions helping the Republican Party going forward to reestablish some level of normalcy, some common sense that puts the real interests of the American people first? Today’s Republican Party is certainly not the one that included Dole, Kassebaum, Pearson, Sebelius, and Myers. Most importantly, the American people benefit when we have two strong, sane political parties that represent different positions but who, notwithstanding these differences, are always in the end working to do what is best for the Country. What is the benefit of placing the interests of one man over all the principles that have guided the Republican Party in the past? And how does this serve our nation?

Aren’t your actions of putting re-election and Party affiliation over upholding your oath to defend the Constitution and our Democracy something very awkward to explain?
Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas
[Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Associated Press]
31 Comments

Senator Moran and the Right Side of History

2/13/2021

10 Comments

 
Dear Senator Moran:

I communicate with you knowing, to say the least, that you confront a challenge of historical dimension in deciding whether former President Trump’s conduct both leading up to January 6th and on that date were so egregious and so threatening to our democratic system of government as to require a vote for impeachment conviction. It is my hope that this message does somehow reach you in time, letting you know that there are a lot folks in Kansas who believe the former President’s pattern of inciting violence and placing at risk the lives of members of Congress, the Vice-President, and the police whose job it is to protect those individuals and our Capitol, warrants conviction. 

I recognize it will not be an easy vote. It would undoubtedly generate controversy. However, as I believe you know, there are many Republicans in Kansas who would applaud such a vote and herald your courage for casting it. As I also think you know, these Republicans reflect the heritage of a moderate and principled political party—from Governor Landon, to President Eisenhower, to Senators Dole, Pearson, and Kassebaum—and a host of others. These are all Kansans who served with honor and distinction—and were looked to for steady, sensible, principled leadership for our state and our nation. They are individuals who I know you respect, and there are many Kansans who would like to see you follow their example. We will be ready to thank you, should you choose to stand up to whatever political pressure or fear of a Primary next year you might confront.

I assume you know that Qanon leaders have already set March 6th as a likely day for the next big march on the Capitol. This should be no surprise, as their leaders who were key to January 6th are already organizing for the future. They feel they won the first round and are in no way discouraged. Trump is certainly speaking like he will be there for them. And their efforts may not be limited to a return to Washington D.C. It appears State Capitols like Michigan are also on their radar.

I attach a letter that hopefully you’ve seen from Leroy Towns, published recently in the Kansas Reflector. I first got acquainted with Leroy when he worked for Governor Bennet, when I was in the Legislature. He has made a huge contribution over many decades to the benefit of Kansas and the nation. Out of respect for him, I am going to attach a copy of what he wrote. Given his writing skills, knowledge, and political history, his message might have more impact than anything I can say.

This is a time in the history of our nation when key votes can have unbelievable negative impacts on the United States of America. Please be on the right side of history.
Digital Signature - John Carlin
John Carlin | Fellow resident of Manhattan, Kansas
Rioter in the Senate Chamber
[Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images]
10 Comments

Restoring Quality and Respect for Civil Service

2/1/2021

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I remember in 1978, starting literally the day after my election, meeting with Budget Office Director Jim Bibb and his talented staff who, for the most part, stayed with me for all eight years and did a tremendous job. They were representative of the many unheralded folks in all areas of government who got the job done on a daily basis. When I began my term, I and my new cabinet had most of the civil service talent basically in place to move forward with my agenda.

In contrast, President Biden will be hindered by the many vacancies created by folks who could not tolerate the unprofessional Trump approach and the totally incompetent political hacks that were hired. The public will need to understand this challenge and accept the fact that it will take significant time to not just set aside incompetent staff but hire quality replacements the federal government needs for expected delivery of quality services. But the experienced Biden-Harris leadership team will get started on this task right away at the various agencies and departments of the federal government.

I think back to my ten years with the National Archives and Records Administration, when I had some 3,000 classified civil service employees who dedicated their careers to public service. Their professionalism and commitment to public service allowed me and my leadership team to focus on securing the resources needed and to work on program changes important to address the changing ways of record creation, preservation, and public access. 

If this Trump disaster has a familiar ring for Kansans, it is the memories of our eight years of the Brownback Administration and all the pain that came from their total disrespect for career public servants. With the support of the Republican led Legislature, the law was changed so that when a career employee retired or moved to another job, they could replace that employee with an unqualified political friend who would survive in that position when there is a change of administration. As one can imagine, such action has made many problems for the Kelly administration.

In contrast, President Obama, after a trip to Alabama following a devastating tornado to inspect and, most importantly, check to see how his FEMA director Craig Fugate and team were doing, was pleased to get very positive local feedback. Writing in his book “A Promised Land,” Obama said this:

“I wasn’t surprised, for Fugate had been one of my best hires, a no nonsense, no-ego, no-excuses public servant with decades of experience dealing with natural disasters. Still it gave me satisfaction to see his efforts recognized, and I was once again reminded that so much of what really mattered in government came down to the daily, unheralded acts of people who weren’t seeking attention but simply knew what they were doing and did it with pride.”

And as I shared earlier, the Biden-Harris Administration will initially need some patience from we the people as they work to fill the voids and vacancies in the civil service system left to them by the Trump Administration. I am very confident they will, but just maybe not as fast as we’d like or need—​following Trump has its special handicaps. And let us all respect the importance of a quality civil service that makes so much difference in how the job of serving citizens actually gets done.
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[Photo: Reuters]
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Still Much to Learn from Dr. King's Visit to Kansas

1/18/2021

1 Comment

 
I was milking cows in 1968, a year one can never forget. The assassinations, the riots, the Chicago Democratic Convention, and ultimately Humphrey losing to Nixon in November. Even with my aging memory, that year is solidly etched in. Including notable appearances by multiple leaders who passed through Kansas during that tumultuous year.

But the year started with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. coming to Manhattan and Kansas State University on January 19th, speaking in Ahearn Fieldhouse to a packed crowd. The following are his opening remarks and, although 53 years have passed, they are certainly on target today.

“There seems to be a desperate, poignant question on the lips of thousands and millions of people all over our nation and all over the world. They are asking whether we have made any real progress in the area of race relations. In seeking to answer this question I always seek to avoid, on the one hand, a superficial optimism and, on the other hand a deadening pessimism. I always try to answer it by giving what I consider a realistic position. It seems to me that the realistic position is that we have made significant strides in the struggle for racial equality, but that we have a long, long way to go before the problem is solved." Read the full transcript here.

There is no better example of how his words a half century ago ring so true today than the all-too-frequent action of law enforcement in response to white backlash against the struggle for Black equality, safety, and justice. What happened in Washington D.C. on January 6th will be etched in history forever. Contrast the actions, or primarily inactions, of law enforcement that day with the often over reaction to a Black Lives Matter protest this past summer and it is abundantly clear that significant police reform is in order.

That double standard was certainly true in the 1960’s. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated April 4th, 1968. Four days later, Congressman John Conyers from Michigan introduced a House Resolution to have an official federal holiday honoring the work of King. In the Kansas Legislative session shortly after King was assassinated, KS Representative Norman Justice introduced a resolution calling for the state to implement a MLK holiday for Kansas. No action was taken at that time. President Carter tried in 1979 to get the holiday established but came up five votes short in the House.  

Final passage making the federal holiday official was not until 1983 (signed into law by President Reagan 11-2-1983) with 1986 being the first year of celebration. Kansas was an early state (1984) in adopting the holiday, with all states on board by the turn of the century. It is striking that, even now, Alabama and Mississippi honor the Confederate General Robert E. Lee on the same day as Dr. King. And we wonder why the symbolism of the Confederate flag is still such an issue. 

Today, there is certainly opposition to needed police reform, just as there was strong opposition to the potential of a holiday for Dr. King. Republican Senator Jesse Helms of North Carolina said King was "anti-American." Some Senators said another holiday would be too expensive to the nation. To that, Republican Senator Dole of Kansas said, “I would suggest they hurry back to their pocket calculators and estimate the cost of 300 years of slavery, followed by a century or more of economic, political, and social exclusion and discrimination.”

I cannot imagine any Republican member of our current Kansas Congressional delegation uttering anything close to what Senator Dole said almost 40 years ago. How things have changed, and not always for the better, highlights the many challenges of race relations that we still face. So, on this year's MLK Day, we should heed Dr. King's words, and learn from his legacy, as we continue the struggle to make this a more just and inclusive nation. Because we certainly have "a long, long way to go."
Dr. King at Kansas State University
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speaking in Ahearn Field House on January 19, 1968. [Photo Courtesy of the Morse Department of Special Collections, Kansas State University Libraries]
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A Story on Not Conceding an Election

1/14/2021

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While it fortunately is not the norm, a candidate not conceding an election has happened before. 

First, let me take you back to General Election day in Kansas, November of 1978. I was challenging incumbent Governor Bob Bennett. I was underfunded, given little chance to win, and in the latest poll published in the Sunday Topeka Daily Capital before the election, I was down 49% to 33%. How I won is another story, but certainly my opponent had to be totally shocked, especially when the first edition of the Topeka Capital Journal had him winning very early Wednesday morning. 

He didn't have to concede and concession was not necessary for the transition process to begin. There was no questioning of the election results but also no real organized help for the transition either, with the exception of access to the budget staff to produce a new budget for the Legislature’s consideration. It was clear that I would become Governor, and I took over as planned on Inauguration Day in 1979 with no fuss. This is certainly the outcome we're all hoping for in 2021.

Years passed and I never gave the issue any thought. For me, Bennett’s unwillingness to concede was never a real issue. After I had left office, the Kansas State Chamber of Commerce sponsored a Leadership Kansas program, inviting both myself and Governor Bennett to jointly appear, share observations, and take questions—​something we ended up doing for several years. At the very first joint appearance, Bennett went first and led off with this statement: “For the record, I want to publicly concede that John won in '78.” The audience didn’t know exactly how to respond, but it didn’t keep us from having a really good joint appearance. I always highly respected him, as we had gotten very well acquainted when we were both in legislative leadership and then during his four years as Governor.

I am thankful and we are fortunate that, despite Trump taking over two months to accept there will be a transition of power, and with accountability coming after putting us through hell on January 6th, the experienced Biden-Harris team knows what they are doing—​even with limited early access to key information, including intelligence and public health. And, come January 20th, they will be ready to lead and make us proud.

But, clearly, re-establishing civility and mutual respect for one another and the electoral process will continue to be a challenge in the coming years. We must restore our faith in the will of the People and our system for freely and fairly electing our leaders. If we don't do this, I fear more dark days could be in our future, rather than our past.
Kansas Governor Bob Bennett, Kansas Governor John Carlin
Pictured here is Governor Bob Bennett and myself, on Inauguration Day in January of 1979. The speech took place indoors that year, in the Auditorium at Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall, with the Swearing-In on the South steps of the Capitol shortly after.
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What the Biden-Harris Picks Say About Their Leadership Style

12/14/2020

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As I watch President Elect Joe Biden put together the team he and Vice President Elect Harris will have come January 20th, confirmations pending, almost without exception I am very pleased. What is obvious is that experience, competence, and diversity are back, and the Federal Government will once again be on track. 

Starting with Biden’s White House staff, what a change from what we have witnessed in the last four years! These folks, in many cases, have been there before with success and will be operating smoothly right at the start. As the Biden-Harris team continues to announce cabinet and top leadership posts, the high quality continues, and although some Republican Senators are already targeting some for serious scrutiny, as is normal, there is hope that this process moves quickly given the existing voids of leadership and the incredible problems we have. 

As this transition goes by day-by-day, I can’t help but reflect on the two new Presidential Administrations that I had some experience with and how those transfers of power worked out. 

Jimmy Carter campaigned early in Kansas, and I had a chance to get acquainted with him. Over time, as Governor, I connected with his staff when I was very active with the National Governors Association. Carter brought with him to Washington many key staff he had as Governor. The group, often referred to as his "Georgia Mafia," had very limited Washington experience, so problems were common.

Six of the eight years I was Governor, Clinton was Governor of Arkansas. Because of our close proximity and the Governors Association, we got very well acquainted. As it became evident that sometime soon he would run for President, I remember telling him more than once to please remember the lesson we both learned from Carter about having experienced folks on your White House staff. Clinton’s first Chief of Staff was a wonderful person with talent that shined in Arkansas but knew nothing about running the White House.

In sharp contrast to these two administrations, Biden has huge advantages. First, there is no Delaware Mafia for Biden, because almost all his experience has been centered in the Nation's Capital. From decades of time in the United States Senate and the eight years as Vice President, he had time to observe and get acquainted with much of the talent his team would need. Biden’s national experience also gave him a clear understanding of the skills needed to successfully lead in this time of huge challenges and pressure.

I think of my own experience setting up an administration and how I ended up with such a great team: Pat Hurley, John Kemp, Barbara Sabol, Joe Harkins, Mike Lennen, Bob Harder, Harley Duncan, and many others including a fantastic staff who were exceptionally talented, hard working, and went on to huge success in government and private business. How did this happen? All I know for sure is I always knew I wasn’t the smartest person in the room, so to succeed, I had to go for the very best. And it is clear now that President Elect Joe Biden is going with folks he knows have the competence and experience to deliver.

He continues to pick knowledgeable public servants that he knows he can listen to and trust when important decisions come to his desk. I know from experience that this style of leadership can lead to fantastic results that serve the people well.
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[Photo: Anna Moneymaker/The New York Times]
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Biden-Harris Administration Gearing Up for Huge Challenges

12/7/2020

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Despite continued Trump efforts to discredit and change the outcome of the 2020 election, President Elect Joe Biden will be sworn in on January 20th as the 46th President of the United States. And, despite the lack of transitional help from the Trump Administration, the Biden-Harris team is doing really well at filling out their team and learning as much as possible about all areas of government. They will be as well prepared as possible come the afternoon of the swearing-in ceremony to take over running the government of the United States of America.

Because the election was very close and in an almost equally politically divided country, the challenges ahead are greater than maybe anytime in history with obstacles in the way including the pandemic and a looming depression for many Americans. On top of that, the 2024 Presidential race has in essence already started. Trump is not going away and is preparing his supporters to do everything possible to hurt Biden. Because Trump remains engaged in politics, I fear the bulk of current Republican members in Congress, particularly the Senate, will be gutless in risking offending him.

Additionally, the Biden team is being pushed by elements of their own party who are making all sorts of demands on key appointments as well as pushing several key policy areas further to the left. Biden needs his liberal supporters to be reasonable, be at the table, and be heard. But the liberals should not publicly demand that their views totally prevail because they believe they won the election for him. Delivering the victory could be claimed of almost any group or area when an election is as close as this one. It’s also far too early in this process to claim that one particular constituency or another has “won or lost” anything. It’s best to be patient and allow the selection processes to play out, knowing the functionality and success of the overall team is the priority here.

Strategically, the plan moving forward must include directions that enhance the likelihood of re-election. I say that for at least two reasons. First, I think the chances increase for the policy changes achieved to survive a Republican reversal if the people re-elect the Biden-Harris team, thus showing public support for the Administration’s leadership. Secondly, we need eight years of appointing judges to begin balancing the court system after the unbelievable Trump move to only appoint not just conservative judges but anti-government ones that have and will continue to reverse positions that have stood for decades under leadership of both parties.

For me, this means strategically to accomplish these goals we must be pragmatic. Biden’s tendency to want Republican support needs to really be given a chance. This is absolutely true if Democrats do not win both Georgia Senate races in January. And in achieving even minimal Republican votes, the public perception should be more positive. And the Administration's messaging will be key. Remembering the audience you need to reach beyond your core supporters will be a must.

Regarding overcoming obstacles, we will probably learn soon whether Biden’s long history in the Senate with some former Republican colleagues can work to some modest degree in helping move his Presidential agenda forward. The first clue will be how those key Republicans start to act following the transition and with less direct pressure from the former President, allowing at least some independent thought. Depending on how the Georgia runoff races go, Biden may need none or only a couple Senators to work with him. Ideally, he will find those Republican votes so that legislation looks at least a little bipartisan, which should increase the chances of surviving a future Republican administration.

Given the challenges of dealing with Covid-19 and the unbelievable growth in cases and deaths as well as the economy, we had better hope and pray Joe and Kamala have the support necessary to succeed. Lives are at stake, and the future is on the line.
President-Elect Biden and Vice President-Elect Harris
[Photo: Ruth Fremson/The New York Times]
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Transition Trainwreck

11/16/2020

1 Comment

 
Americans voted early or on November 3rd, with the election called by the Associated Press on Saturday, November 7th. In normal times, President-Elect Biden would have already met with President Trump and the transition period would have started. Full funding from the General Services Agency would have been provided immediately in order to implement the transition process for the best interests of the United States of America. I’m sure you have all seen TV news clips of the smiling and positive transfers taking place from Carter to Reagan, H. W. Bush to Clinton, Clinton to W. Bush, W. to Obama, and Obama to Trump all involving a change from one party to the other.

But today is not normal in many ways. President Trump has not conceded, although he has basically announced he will be running for President in 2024. He has and is pushing for recounts, investigations, and claiming he has been cheated. Now, you might say what’s new? Isn’t that just politics? Well, even following several very contentious elections, no President in modern times has acted this way. Each has demonstrated a fundamental commitment to ensuring that governmental functions can continue to be carried out effectively by a successor and, more importantly, that Americans’ confidence in our electoral process, including a peaceful transfer of power from one political party to another, is preserved.

What you need to share when hearing and or visiting with anyone who buys in with all these false claims is the fact that the count was watched over by both Republicans and Democrats, regardless of whether the state had a Republican or Democratic Secretary of State, with several of the Republicans speaking out in defense of the validity of the election results. There are reports that many Republicans have privately acknowledged a Biden win, but are not willing to do this in public to avoid the wrath of Trump and his voter base. Some say Trump simply won’t concede because that will nullify all the lawsuits his campaign has filed regarding election outcomes. Regardless of their reasons, their denials of reality are flaring tensions among supporters who have not yet been told to stand down by their leader. So, the transition trainwreck continues into dangerous territory.

Trump's actions tear at the fabric of the most fundamental concept that is at the core of the Constitutional republic we were gifted by our founders. When President Washington served his two terms and walked away, peacefully transitioning power to another administration, it solidified this as a free nation, truly governed by laws and not men. This miracle, and the long tradition that followed, is something that is truly great about our country. One wannabe autocrat won't change that, but he will continue to do damage all the way out the door—​with or without a uniformed escort.

People need to understand that what goes on in the transition leading up to noon on January 20th, when Joe Biden will be sworn in as the 46th President of the United States, makes a huge difference on how the next administration gets started. Given that the current Trump administration is filled with acting administrators, primarily political friends of the President who have limited or no talents needed for the position, getting Biden-talent now ready to go is all the more important.

But what makes that doubly important this time is not just all of the international and national security issues that are up in the air, but the critical need for real and informed leadership to address the handling of Covid-19 and the surge in cases and deaths we are experiencing throughout the country, with predictions of the numbers only getting worse as winter sets in. We need the adults to get back in the room, and fast.

Think for a moment on what might be going through Putin’s mind. Is this an opportunity for Russia? His best friend will leave office January 20th, of that we should be certain. Putin’s friend has filled key Pentagon and Defense posts with acting, incompetent political friends. Maybe now is the time to pursue his desire to take back Ukraine. I think it would be safe to say our current President would look the other way and his minions would stifle any competent discussion of what should be done. And Putin is just one of many authoritarian leaders and other bad actors who may seek to exploit this vulnerable time for our government and the fabric of our nation.

Needless to say, with Covid-19 already bumming out enthusiasm for Thanksgiving and the holiday season, thanks to Donald Trump, we now face two months of unnecessary trauma.
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[Photo: Julio Cortez/Associated Press]
1 Comment

To the Republicans Who Want Their Party Back...

10/24/2020

1 Comment

 
I know my audience has a fairly limited number of Republicans, so once again I am sharing a message with the hope there will be opportunities for you to pass the good word along. This election, both for our state and nationally, is not just about who is going to be primarily in charge come January but also could have significant influence on how our democracy moves forward in the coming years.

It is truly my hope and prayer that at some time soon the Republican Party can return to a saner version of conservatism, where the two Parties, particularly on really important issues, work across Party lines for the best interest of the American people and the future of our democracy. President Eisenhower worked closely with Majority Leader Senator Lyndon Johnson and Speaker Sam Rayburn, both Democrats and as a result the Interstate Highway System was passed.

My message to Republicans, especially to those of you who have concerns but do not want to abandon the Party, I say this: vote for Democrats in key races, which does not require a change of registration (although you would be welcome) and send a strong message that until the Republican Party returns to sanity, you will continue to vote for Democrats. If you stick with the Brownback Republicans, how can you expect change? Losing can send a powerful message. In fact, it may be the only way to bring real reforms into serious consideration within the party.

Many quality, moderate Republicans were defeated in the August Primary because of their opposition to the Brownback agenda and their shocking willingness to work with Democrats for the good of the state. This might be less likely to happen in the future if election analysis shows Democrats won big because of Republican votes. Something must happen to get more Republicans back to a conservative set of beliefs that can help lead to good policy for the state, especially on the key issues for Kansans.

As I reflect on my years with Kansas politics, I value the many times I had to visit with former Governor Alf Landon and learn from his experiences. Senator Bob Dole and I had our political differences, but we didn’t let that get in the way of working together for the best interests of Kansas. I think back on some of the key successes we had in my administration where, for example, working with Republican Senator Charlie Angell and Representative David Heinemann on the State’s first real Water plan or Senate President Ross Doyen on a major infrastructure program made a real positive difference for the State of Kansas.

Then, I think of our contemporary Kansas Republican leaders at the national and state level, and there is a stark difference, one almost totally devoid of compromise and crossing the aisle. How can Moran, Marshall, Roberts and Wagle look themselves in the mirror with integrity? Or should they feel shame for their role in advancing Trump’s hijacking of the Republican Party and his abuse of fundamental principles and institutions underlying our democratic system of government?  

Share this message, use it in conversations with friends, make it clear they can have it both ways. They can vote the right way for what is best now and ​ give the Republican Party another chance to make the changes necessary to get back to when two strong Parties with different philosophies, in the end, worked out their differences and did what was right for the country.

​But if the "Party of Lincoln" doesn't start resembling their founder soon, they bring grave risk to the foundation of the "House United" that he worked so hard to preserve. We cannot remain divided against one another, against ourselves as a Nation. For, as President Lincoln warned—​and our adversaries around the world know full well—​that house cannot stand. 

We've reached the final stretch of a hugely-consequential election, and if you've ever wondered what you would do if our republic was on the line, this is the time to bring those thoughts and words into action. Vote like your life depends on it, and make sure others are doing the same.
Lincoln Memorial
[Photo By: Evan Vucci/Associated Press]
1 Comment

Engaging Young Voters: A Role For Everyone

10/12/2020

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To begin, I know that the bulk of my readers are like me, old enough to be grandparents, and that many of your grandchildren are of voting age. I assume you love them and want the very best for them and their future. Therefore, my challenge to you is to see that they, as well as other young people, vote. And this extends to any young person in your life: children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, etc. Many are busy people, and they need to be reminded of key dates and details to make sure their votes are counted, especially in this difficult year. It never hurts to check in, and make sure these important people are making a plan to vote. Their future will depend on their influence in who gets elected. The following is my pitch on just why this is so important.

If younger generations do not wake up soon to the importance of voting, and that means starting now with this election, they will face a future that they will forever regret. They will realize, too late, that they could have done something. The climate change that did not get reined in soon enough as well as the failure to invest wisely in research, innovation, and education, have by then put today’s young people in a position of headaches and disappointments of a huge magnitude that could have been avoided.

For better or for worse, this is a Presidential election that will be remembered forever. The ultimate outcome will be either that our democracy survived and flourished or this will be the election wherein our democracy died. I say this not to scare you, but to put in proper perspective what we and future generations face. 

Young people need to vote, but not just only for a Presidential race. There are down ballot races like the U.S. Senate and four Congressional races here in Kansas with national implications.  The entire Kansas Legislature plus local county races, particularly county commissioners, also have severe implications for our future. Given the pandemic, we now know much better the importance of local leaders-just think about how county commissioners across the state have made decisions as they oversee their county health departments’ decisions on public health issues. Obviously, there is much at stake come November 3rd.

Historically, young people have turned out to vote at a lower rate than older generations (check out the stats shared by Loud Light). The participation rates between these age groups is not even close. Consequently, campaigns tend to put less emphasis on young voters’s concerns and focus on older generations who are much more likely to vote. The results consequently follow suit with older and more conservative views prevailing. Therefore, the issue is not just voting in this critical election. It is also about establishing that the votes of the younger generation can now make a real difference in who gets elected in the future.   

I’ve said many times to my students in my classes at K-State that is is not rocket science to understand why the issues of my generation like social security, medicare, and low taxes get strong attention while issues like investing tax dollars in the future through research, infrastructure, and strong public education at all levels tend to be put off. 

Unfortunately, elected officials show more interest in who votes than young people’s futuristic hopes and dreams. If more young people would vote, if that block could start influencing outcomes, policies would more likely change. Politicians agree for the most part on only one thing, and that is the importance of getting elected and re-elected. A young person’s vote counts much more if their peers are voting too. This should be an incentive to get involved and work to get friends and peers registered and voting. 

To close on a more positive note, I have been teaching young people at K-State for now over 15 years and in that time I have seen growing interest in politics here in Kansas and nationally as well. When I ask my students if they are registered to vote, the percentage who say yes has grown considerably. I get similar responses as well as who say they have already voted and are committed to vote this November 3rd. There is hope, but we need more senior citizens who can accelerate that movement with some sage advice from our years of experience. IT DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE WHO GETS ELECTED.
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[Photo: The Wichita Eagle]
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Debate Brings Full Threat to Democracy Into the Open

10/5/2020

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Along with all Americans, I am concerned about the health of President Trump and the First Lady and fervently hope they (along with others who have contracted the COVID-19 virus) experience a swift and complete recovery. In ordinary times, I would have delayed or held off on posting today’s blog. However, the extreme threat to our democratic electoral system posed by the President’s election strategy compels continued vigilance and explanation. We need to know what is happening and what is at stake. For that reason, the campaign season must go on. This includes inquiries, future debates, commentary, and engagement between the candidates themselves and especially voter-to-voter. So, with all of that in mind, I decided to move forward with this posting.
In a totally bizarre performance last Tuesday night, President Trump laid out his plan for retaining the presidency in starkly clear—and very troubling—terms. He did so knowing he will not win the popular vote, nor the Electoral College, if all votes are counted and certified accurately. Keep in mind that what he proposes would sabotage the process by which we select a democratically elected government for the United States. That his supporters have seemed either unconcerned or even approving of his plan and performance is hard to believe. 

Given that Trump is likely to face enormous problems upon his exit from the White House, it is understandable that he views it as a safe house—a residence to be retained irrespective of the damage he does to the country’s underlying institutions.

So how does he win? He wins by creating an atmosphere that the election is rigged—that all his votes were not counted. In fact, Tuesday night he talked about votes already cast  for him having been found in trash cans. Of course, no real specifics were shared. But even more troubling is his obvious effort to stir his radical base to mobilize in any way they see fit to disrupt the voting process, and to discourage voters from voting on election day November 3rd by telling these radicals to show up at polling sites.

His hope is that, with so many mail ballots being cast throughout the country and with only two states, Florida and Arizona, counting those ballots as they come in, he will be ahead on election night. He can then declare victory and, when the votes turn to favor Biden, assert fraud and go to the courts where he hopes to find a majority of sympathetic right-wing, Trump-appointed judges who will affirm a win for him. 

Along with this judicial strategy, he is issuing a not-at-all subtle call to right-wing radicals and militia types to do what they can to intimidate voters and otherwise disrupt the electoral process and its aftermath. His direction to the Proud Boys, “stand back and stand by,” was immediately adopted by them as their mantra. They feel empowered that Trump embraced their group at the debate and took his statement as a rallying cry. Who would imagine that the President of the United States would in effect be issuing a call for civil insurrection? But that is the core of the Trump effort. And it adds fuel to a threat that's been on the rise in recent years here at home, nationwide, and abroad.
 
I am reminded of the Watergate era and the huge contrast between the actions of Republican leaders then and now. At that time, senators like Howard Baker (later Nancy Kassebaum’s husband) and Barry Goldwater stood up and spoke out when evidence of wrong-doing was clear. Their actions led to Nixon’s decision to resign and the peaceful transfer of power to President Ford. The Republican senators acted with political integrity and real concern about doing what was right for the country.

What happened then, however, is beginning to seem minor compared to the Trump assault on our democracy that is manifest today. There were, of course, serious concerns about Nixon himself and what had happened in the course of the Watergate break-in and cover-up, but, in truth there was no serious constitutional crisis nor was there a real threat to our democracy. 

If Roberts and Moran as well as wanna-be Senator Congressman Marshall and the rest of the Republican Kansas delegation stay silent, in essence giving license to Trump to proceed, they will join other Republican-elected officials who share responsibility for undermining our democracy. In their silence, they will have broken their promise to support the Constitution of the United States of America. Our democratic system and institutions could be a casualty of their cowardice.
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Misusing the Bible for Political Gain

9/19/2020

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In Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, we lost a truly great American and a champion for equal justice under law. Her character, intellect, and influence did so much good for so many throughout her lifetime of service. I will have more to say about this enormous loss and the implications after more time to reflect, but today, our country pays tribute to a life extraordinarily well lived.
I was struck by the Letter to the Editor that my friend and my former Secretary of Revenue Mike Lennen wrote laying out his concern. His letter should be of interest to thousands of Kansans as we face a critical election in just six weeks. The following paragraph opens the letter and you can read the entire letter here.

“Among the more perplexing actors in the political arena are those who purport to rely on Jesus’ words to justify ignoring the needs of lower-income citizens. Congressman Roger Marshall is one of those actors. The now candidate for the United States Senate explained his opposition to the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid expansion by quoting Jesus for the proposition that 'The poor will always be with us.' Marshall conveniently, or perhaps ignorantly, left out the associated Biblical message upon which the scripture is based that teaches that the circumstance of widespread poverty requires people to be generous and open-handed with their neighbors."

But Marshall is consistent in his thinking on many key health issues. For example, in a leadership position he held at the Great Bend hospital, Marshall spearheaded the effort to not take Medicaid patients, shoving them off on surrounding rural hospitals. His strong support for repealing the Affordable Care Act without any viable replacement is another case in point. Among other harms to Kansans, such action would seriously impact people with preexisting conditions. 

For some Republican Kansas Legislators that thinking may explain how they not only justify voting against expansion of Medicaid for thousands of Kansans in need of care, but also disregard the doctors and hospitals providing the care and their financial survival. Additionally strange is how these very conservative folks are okay sending our tax dollars to Washington D.C. to be distributed to the vast majority of states accepting Federal money to expand Medicaid.

Misuse of the Bible for political gain is just wrong but almost as disturbing is the pervasive silence of religious leaders when it happens. I understand not personalizing criticism to the point of sharing a candidate's name, but at least they might suggest to citizens when evaluating candidates who they might support to check to see if their favored candidates generally reflect their own personal religious beliefs.

I taught a high school Sunday School class for about ten years and have no recollection of any material I used that communicated ignoring the needs of our fellow citizens was okay and backed by scripture. I do not recall at any time any Pastor I have ever known who ever found ignoring the obvious needs of people in the area, as well as those afar, as an acceptable option. 

Let me be clear. I would never have made this charge against Senators Dole, Kassebaum, Pearson, or any others for that matter. As far as I know, misusing scripture was not an argument used by Republicans in the past and for that matter many other Republicans today. Given all the critical health-related issues we have today, and not just COVID-19, the facts are clear that disadvantaged folks, regardless of why, are clearly in need of help and we have an obligation to provide aid directly or through our support of government programs.
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Book Review - The Rise and Spectacular Fall: Radical Kansas Republicans, 2010 to 2020

9/5/2020

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Recently, my friend Ed Flentje sent me a book he authored including cartoons by Richard Crowson, entitled The Rise and Spectacular Fall: Radical Kansas Republicans, 2010-2020. I’ve read it and came away with not only an excellent refresher course in Kansas government and politics but a clear message that Governor Brownback may be gone but his damaging and totally counterproductive politics live on, and based on the recent Primary results, that continues into 2020.

In the Foreword written by Davis “Buzz” Merritt, newspaper reporter and editor since 1957, he started with a quote combined with his own addition: “Those who cannot do, teach, those who can do, can’t teach,” and “Those who cannot do or teach write newspaper opinion pieces.” That was a light way of introducing Ed’s collection of ten years of opinion pieces he wrote and shared around the state. And it is quite the archive of Kansas political thought and history.

Organized around three chapters: Finance, Politics, and Governance, Ed’s opinion’s are shared as the ten year period progressed, leaving us in depth information and analysis based on his observations and opinions at the time on government action and politics. For me, this read is a must for anyone who wants to better understand the unfortunate "lost decade" just completed in Kansas, but most importantly, to appreciate that the decade following will continue to be heavily influenced by the Brownback failures and, unless that is understood and dealt with, the damage will continue.

I will have more to say on this subject next week on my blog, but I share this today as a focus for further reading and learning on the topic. The book provides excellent background and great detail about the many problems created during those years, and it is my hope that it can provide both education and inspiration, as we charge up for another contentious and consequential election year.

Crowson’s cartoons will add a lighter touch but still very effective at getting the messages across in an entertaining and digestible way. The book is available via eBook or hard-copy and is a must read for anyone concerned about the challenges we face as a state and the politics of the time.
Ed Flentje - The Rise and Spectacular Fall: Radical Kansas Republicans, 2010 to 2020
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    John W. Carlin​—​61st Speaker of the Kansas House, 40th Governor of Kansas, 8th Archivist of the United States, and student of leadership

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