Blog Posts

Restoring Quality and Respect for Civil Service

2/1/2021

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.

[Photo: Reuters]

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Still Much to Learn from Dr. King's Visit to Kansas

1/18/2021

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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. 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.

[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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Legal Dead-Ends and Damage to Democracy

11/30/2020

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Whether perceived as farce or tragedy or some melding of the two, the Giuliani and friends press conference held at the Republican National Committee headquarters pushed a conspiracy involving foreign dictators (one of whom died 7 years ago), foreign governments, local and state election officials, German data storage equipment, an American election technology company (erroneously described as a Venezuelan company), and the ever-villainized George Soros along with the Clinton Foundation.

This combined effort to deny President Trump the “landslide” election he purportedly won—demands that responsible GOP leaders (in addition to Senators Romney and Sasse and certain state Republican election officials) stand up and say “Stop–Enough.” Now, I acknowledge that our Senator Moran has now referred to Vice President Biden as President Elect, which is a step but no direct concern expressed about the craziness going on in general like with the President attacking Republican Secretaries of State that certified Biden’s victory. Then there is Senator Elect Marshall giving $20k to help fund these crazy sideshows.

It is unclear whether this tragicomic effort is intended only to salve the wounded ego of our narcissistic president or to do something much more sinister—like overturning the outcome of a democratically conducted American presidential election. Whatever the intent, there are compelling reasons—life and death reasons—for it to end and hopefully has by the time you read this.

First, as the transition to a Biden presidency has been stalled and Trumpian disciples continue to insist that the Covid-19 pandemic is a hoax, silence from the President as he sulks in the White House ensures that millions of Americans will not take appropriate measures to at least slow the explosive spread of the coronavirus and lower the number of Covid-19 hospitalizations and deaths until a robust vaccination program is underway. His speaking out could make a real difference, particularly if joined by other Republican leadership. That consequence in itself should move our otherwise silent and apparently intimidated Kansas Senators to speak out and make clear to Kansans—many of whom may understandably be disappointed with the presidential outcome—that the election is over, that Biden won, and that speaking out clearly on the necessity of wearing masks, socially distancing, and limiting crowd size, could make a real difference in bringing this pandemic to an earlier end as well as save lives.

There is a second and equally important reason for our senators to convey a clear message to Kansans that the electoral process was fairly conducted and produced an honest result. Senators Moran and Roberts know that the Trump-Giuliani effort damages, perhaps irreparably and without justification, underlying confidence in our entire democratic system of government. Speaking the truth, clearly and unequivocally, may be uncomfortable for our senators. I realize they may receive some backlash from the more unhinged Trump supporters in the state, but a matter far more important than their comfort is at issue and that is the survival of our very system of government.

It is time for our senators to stand up for democracy. Why not put the country first? I would suggest that their children and grandchildren would be proud. I would also suggest there will be a lot of support from rank and file Kansans praying for sanity and for our system of government, as envisioned by the founders, to be preserved. Why not emulate the courage of President (then General) Eisenhower who on the eve of D-Day did not hesitate explicitly to accept full responsibility if the European landing did not succeed? His was indeed a profile in courage.

I am a Democrat, but I believe our state and country are stronger if we have a vibrant and sane two-party system. Neither America, nor the Republican Party, are served by the cowardice of otherwise reasonable leaders, including Senators Moran and Roberts—who indeed know better than to countenance the machinations of Trump, Giuliani, and their minions.

[Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images]

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Transition Trainwreck

11/16/2020

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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.

[Photo: Julio Cortez/Associated Press]

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To the Republicans Who Want Their Party Back...

10/24/2020

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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.

[Photo By: Evan Vucci/Associated Press]

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Gerrymandering a Top Priority for KS GOP

10/19/2020

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Gerrymandering is rigging the maps for Congressional or Legislative Districts to favor one Party over the other to assure their candidates win many more seats than their registration numbers would suggest, and with total disregard for common sense in how districts look geographically. Why is this topic important now right before the coming election? Because the legislators we elect this November the 3rd will draw the district maps that will be used for the next ten years by both Congress and the State Legislature.

To give you a graphic picture of what that might look like in real time, I share a very recent quote from Senate President Susan Wagle made to the Wichita Pachyderm Club: "A Republican bill that gives us 4 Republican Congressmen that take out Sharice Davids in the 3rd, we can do that. I guarantee you. We can draw four Republican Congressional maps."

How might this look? One possibility would be to take Democratic Wyandotte County away from Congresswoman Davids, sending it west to be lost in a sea of Republican rural counties. And yes, they can if they elect enough compliant Republican Legislators to have a 2/3rd’s plus majority in both Houses of the Legislature to override any Governor Kelly veto.

It took us almost two centuries in this country to achieve one person one vote, but now we fight both voter suppression so all have equal access to the voting booth and gerrymandered districts that give one party more power than the mix of registered voters would indicate. Wagle’s very partisan action certainly doesn’t help set the right environment for needed progress.

In a relatively recent decision of the United States Supreme Court, where there was an opportunity to address the obvious downside of gerrymandering, the Court failed to do so by a 5-4 majority, and basically sent the responsibility back to individual states to manage gerrymandering as they see fit. That may work in some states, but for many, the bulk of the power will shift to whichever party has the votes with fairness thrown out the window and districts drawn that make no practical sense at all for the constituents. In the most fundamental way, such a result is antithetical to our constitutional democracy.

In her dissenting opinion in that Supreme Court case, Justice Kagan laid bare the harms of gerrymandering: “The partisan gerrymanderers . . . deprived citizens of the most fundamental of their Constitutional rights: The rights to participate equally in the political process, to join with others to advance political beliefs, and to choose their political representatives.” She explained: “The core principle of republican government, [as] this Court has recognized, is that the voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around. Partisan gerrymandering turns it the other way around.” Finally, she quotes Madison for the proposition that this democratic violation puts “the government over the people.”

Senator Wagle brazenly endorses this debasement of our system of government. Her objective can only be avoided with certainty if there are enough representatives from both political parties in the Kansas Legislature to ensure that each party can participate effectively in the redistricting process.

Historically, we in Kansas have been fairly successful in avoiding extreme gerrymandering over the years. Having Democratic Governors with enough Democrats in the Legislature to uphold a veto has, for the most part, avoided crazy unfair maps. But now, with two weeks until the election that will determine the map makeup of the Kansas Legislature and our Congressional districts for the next ten years, Republican Legislative leaders it appears, have gerrymandering front and center.

Some will say, wouldn’t the Democrats do the same thing if they were in power? That may be true in some states, but in Kansas we typically are in the minority and at best we hope to avoid disaster. Nationally, we have regularly seen that Democratic-led states support some kind of outside entity drawing the district maps that are considered for enactment by the legislature.

The point is, if we want good government that truly represents the people, we want as much balance as fits the makeup of the state and not be governed by gerrymandering. Which brings us back to the election and who gets elected, which will determine just how fair those districts will be drawn. Vote now, and help make sure others do the same.

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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.

[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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The Shameful Effort to Replace Justice Ginsburg

9/26/2020

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Justice Ginsburg was both a beacon and a trailblazer in the struggle to establish women’s rights under the law. Her work pushed our nation to overcome institutionally entrenched discrimination that denied equal treatment to women and other marginalized groups. Throughout her career as an attorney and jurist, she was tenacious, visionary, focused, and persuasive in her determination to ensure that members of our society were not burdened with “artificial constraints on [their] opportunity” to succeed.

Justice Ginsburg zealously worked to preserve the protections for women’s reproductive rights enunciated in Roe v. Wade; to ensure that women would not be unjustly denied admission to an all-male academic military institution in United States v. Virginia; and to insist that fundamental rights of LGBTQ+ citizens would be recognized and protected. As she wrote in the Virginia Military Institute case, “women (and by extension other marginalized groups) should not be denied full citizenship status simply because they are women. Rather, they must be accorded equal opportunity to aspire, achieve, participate in and contribute to society.”

Although recognition and preservation of women’s legal rights is a hallmark of her public career, Justice Ginsburg was also a strong advocate for environmental protections and for ensuring minority voting rights. Her vote was also critical to affirming the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. Justice Ginsburg has been described as a warrior, but one who fought with grace and civility. In every respect, she was the inspirational model for a public servant and leader in a functioning democratic society.

With her passing comes a political reality that forces us to deal strongly and intelligently with the horrific challenges we face—starting at this moment with the recent nomination to replace Justice Ginsburg on the United States Supreme Court and to do it before the November election. Kansas Senators Jerry Moran and Pat Roberts, without even knowing who the President intended to nominate, already stated their position. They were going to vote for whomever the President nominated. This, of course, is in direct repudiation of the position they took four years ago when Justice Scalia died in February of 2016, many months before the 2016 election. One Senator even announced he would meet with President Obama's nominee, only to reverse himself a day later. In the end, both Kansas Senators refused to even consider that nomination, wrapping themselves around the McConnell-created “principle” that in an election year the voters should have a voice in such a monumental decision and that whoever wins the election should decide.

Particularly troubling was Senator Moran’s announcement coming less than 24 hours after Justice Ginsburg’s death that the McConnell “principle” should be jettisoned and the Senate should move ahead immediately to vote on Trump's nominee. I will confess to being shocked by such callous disrespect for the memory and legacy of a revered governmental leader as well as the damage such action does to the institutions of our democracy. I cannot imagine this sort of behavior being displayed by past Kansas Republican leaders like President Eisenhower or Senators from Arthur Capper to Nancy Kassebaum.

Moran and Roberts are like many of those on the Titanic denying there could be any problem. In this case, the drowning of our democracy. The Republican Party’s goal is to lock in anti-women and anti-progressive thinking for decades, even though a strong majority of Americans disagree including many Republicans in Kansas.

What should get America's attention is not just the risk of Roe v. Wade being overturned and sent back for each individual state to decide. The ultimate goal of Trump and his acolytes goes much further regarding reproductive issues for women. One example is eliminating federal funding for contraception even though recent research shows that access to birth control decreases the rate of abortion. The conservative philosophy also denies a governmental role in helping individuals, such as providing health care to those not now covered by Medicaid expansion or the existence of the Affordable Care Act as a whole—or apparently in even preserving Social Security and Medicare for older citizens and people with disabilities.

With a right-wing Supreme Court, another set of issues that Ginsburg championed could be lost. Specifically, all the advancements for women that Ginsburg fought for both as a lawyer arguing before the Supreme Court and as a Justice. The Founders guaranteed equal protection under the law for all citizens. But it wasn't until Ginsburg, who fought successfully as a lawyer, that women for the first time were treated equally as men under the law. Her work led to women being rightfully included in the interpretation of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. The question going forward is: would a Trump right wing Supreme Court concur with any of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s successes?

We need to also remember election year 2000: The Supreme Court decided that Bush won when they could have instead sent the case back to Florida to have all the votes counted. If Trump is successful on this Court appointment, he will have the votes from the Supreme Court to declare himself the election victor if he continues to insist that there is so-called massive fraud in the election process. You might think that is a crazy possibility but it is absolutely not. Trump is now suggesting that he will not necessarily preside over an orderly and peaceful transition of power should election results not comport with his desires. He has specifically said he views it important that a new justice to be confirmed in order to participate in the presidential election decision. In the past, such comments emanating from a U.S. President would be unthinkable.

This is not a football game where trick plays happen and your only thought is why didn’t my team anticipate and avoid the damage? The damage here is not just real but there will be no next game next week to learn and turn things around. Let’s get serious and do everything possible for whatever time we have to stop this attack on our democracy.

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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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Brownbackers Still on the Ballot in 2020

9/12/2020

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In the general election this November, the people of Kansas have opportunities. In the introduction to his new book The Rise and Spectacular Fall, Ed Flentje wrote: “The lurch to the far right in the second decade of the 21st century will likely be viewed by historians as an aberration, though grassroots politics will require tending in order to flourish.”

That tending must get very serious now, so that in November we can take first steps electing candidates who understand and are willing to take head-on the work of correcting the damages done by eight years with Brownback as our Governor. Yes, his name is not on the 2020 ballot but certainly what he stood for and brought to Kansas remains.

Brownback’s far right ideology can be summed up this way: Cut taxes to primarily help very high-income taxpayers, weaken the government to set up more reasons to cut budgets, and promote private education to the detriment of public education. The vast majority of both House and Senate Republican incumbents, as well as their new recruits, are locked into the Brownback philosophy of anti-government and give full attention to whatever far right special interests want.

This past August’s Republican Primary results certainly added to the challenge we face. With so many Republican moderates in both the House and the Senate losing their elections, the informal alliance that has in recent years been so helpful is really in trouble. This makes holding back further policy damage from the far right even more difficult. And, for many Kansans, the choice for maintaining fiscal sanity and a rational approach to governing may involve crossing party lines to support a Democrat, especially given the number of far right successes in the primaries this year.

Who we elect to serve us come January will not just be the legislators taking on Medicaid expansion, support for public education, and a host of other issues. These people will also decide the district maps for both House and Senate for the next ten years. For that process to have any built in fairness, at the very least, Democrats will need enough votes to back up a Governor Kelly veto, to force some degree of balance rather than creating a total gerrymandered Republican set of maps.

I’ve read commentary on the coming legislative races that includes a focus on the need for Democrats to have the votes necessary to protect any Governor Kelly veto. From experience, I know sustaining a veto is important. Doing so will be key for the Governor to match the strength of the majority, but that should be a minimum goal. We need to take steps toward having the numbers to have real influence and legislators who, over time, can deliver for the state what is desperately needed to address the obvious challenges we face.

Although we know this will take many years, we can at least begin with this election to make the changes necessary. Starting now is imperative. There are quality Democrats in many districts, both House and Senate, that could bring back a direction of wisely, not wildly, investing in our future, much like in years past when Republicans, working with Democrats, got the state's business done and done well.

Again, Brownback’s exit from Kansas is true only in mailing address. He still very much impacts our state and not for the better. Fortunately, we have an alternative direction that can begin with changes made in our November General Election. Now, go do something to help. The future is hanging in the balance.

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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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The U.S. Postal Service is Essential to Democracy

8/29/2020

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Republican members of our Congressional delegation are basically silent on the President’s straightforward attempt at destroying the Postal Service for what he sees as a key to his re-election. The President’s motives are very clear. He believes that making it more difficult to vote by mail, confusing people, and creating mistrust may result in fewer turning out to the polls and many ballots not arriving in time to be counted. All tactics that Trump thinks could increase his chances of winning.

Trump also wants to privatize the United States Postal System even though the impact on many citizens will be higher costs and loss of services all in the name of serving the bottom line for private investors.

For us living across Kansas with so much rural area and the necessity of quality service that will deliver mail to remote areas, without the U.S. Postal Service, where would we be? Kansans are poised for another large increase in mail-in voting participation this fall, but it's not just election results at stake. Just think of all the critical and time sensitive shipping services that either by budget cuts or the private sector push for profit would be so dramatically impacted. Essential medical prescriptions, business transactions that require timeliness, bills that need to arrive and be paid on time, and of course Social Security and other retirement benefits, all create real life impacts when mail delivery is delayed.

Is destroying the Postal Service a direction we want to take? I do not think so and wonder why our Republican Congressional delegation is so silent given all the rural areas they represent. But it's not just silence that is damaging; a current candidate for U.S. Senate—doing Trump's work for him—recently referred to it as a "so-called crisis." Their inaction and misinformation is also a clear message that Republicans are not concerned about our right to vote and to have all of our ballots counted in the middle of this brutal pandemic.

This strikes right at the heart of our system of government and the integrity of our all-important elections. Faith in our elections and the peaceful transition of power are bedrock principles that parties and candidates throughout our history used to support, not undermine. Those Republicans should ask themselves exactly what kind of country we want to be and what freedom really means to them. What credibility do we have in promoting the idea of self-government abroad when our elections are now the ones that need to be monitored by independent sources in order to ensure integrity? Without the right to vote and fair elections, this is no longer the republic we thought we lived in and that we were gifted by our founders.

The U.S. Postal Service is not a product of either Republican or Democratic ingenuity but of Benjamin Franklin, a founding father and our first Postmaster General. He recognized at the very beginning of our democracy the need for citizens to have a way to communicate and have mail delivered in a timely fashion. Franklin believed that having such a system was critical to keeping the citizens informed and making our new government work, which is why it's rooted in the Constitution itself. To paraphrase Franklin's famous words, they left us a republic, if we can keep it...

Instead of concerns about the Postal Service, our delegation is not just silent but instead are raising concerns about issues that are not at the top for most Kansans. Take a recent television ad for Congressman Marshall that includes Senator Moran with both focused on Sanctuary Cities (Kansas does not have one) and immigration as an excellent example of their gaslighting. Both are using these issues as punching bags for self-serving political purposes that results in very negative side effects. In particular, the agriculture sector in western Kansas very much needs immigrants to do much of the work, and the focus on vilifying others does not exactly lay out the welcome mat to immigrants nor new business.

Our elected Representatives’ silence is allowing the damage to the Postal System to continue when we know how critical this service is to our democracy. Their inaction is hard to fathom.

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19th Amendment Centennial and Where We Stand Today

8/15/2020

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On August 18th, 1920 the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution received final approval when Tennessee became the state to achieve the ⅔ vote necessary to amend. Kansas ratified the 19th Amendment a year earlier on June 16th, 1919. To put this achievement in some perspective, shortly after the Civil War, Black men's right to vote was recognized with the passage of the 15th amendment to the Constitution. Over forty years would pass before a woman's right to vote would be recognized.

This significant advancement was not accomplished by men leading the change. Men were not making the case to their colleagues that the time had come for women to have the right to vote. Much to the contrary, women persisted in leading the way. In 1869 the National Woman's Suffrage Association was formed and led by Susan B. Anthony. This movement was built off of previous women-led efforts around abolition and temperance movements.

Women have always been key in leading change and that is even more important for our future.

From a point of view of state pride, Kansas in many ways has led the nation on women’s equality. Kansas was the first state in the nation to hold a referendum on women’s suffrage in 1867 and recognized women's right to vote in local elections in 1887. That same year, the town of Argonia, Kansas elected the first female mayor in U.S. history. And, in 1912, Kansas recognized a woman's right to vote in national elections, eight years before the 19th amendment passed.

Understanding our past holds lessons for our future. My focus in this blog is on what should be done to make the most of the underutilized talents of the women in our workforce. This is not just about equal pay, but promoting women into positions that make best use of their talents and leadership skills for the benefit of everyone. Especially, at this time in our nation where there is a critical need for making positive change.

The growing fact is that many young women are outperforming young men at a significant pace by doing better in their classes, by simply learning more, and by being better prepared to really make a difference through leading change. I want to make it clear that we have many very talented young men, it is just that they tend to be fewer in number. The key is getting the right person in the right position of leadership and more often than not a woman.

So how does that progress take place? There needs to be more awareness and acknowledgment that when employers fail to fully engage women in the workplace, there are consequences, including a potentially negative impact on the bottom line. Whether financial or due to unachieved policy outcomes and practices with public institutions, the consequences can be quite significant. Given the huge challenges that are coming out of the pandemic, ensuring women are allowed to fulfill their potential is even more important.

In a strange way, the pandemic and all the needs it exposed for major change in our society may accelerate interest, motivation, and pressure for major change. We just might be more aware of the reality of our shortcomings, that we are no longer number one or close in many key areas, and going forward with the past ways will just not get it done. That will put more pressure on getting change agents—often women—in a key position to lead us on climate change, improving education, and addressing the many local issues needed for economic growth in the future.

The fact that more women are stepping up to run for public office also gives me hope. The new, very talented women in Congress from 2018, and likely more coming from 2020 elections including a candidate for Vice President of the United States, is very positive. Younger generations also inspire me to believe that the message of equality is taking hold, and their continued engagement is precisely the thing that can bring about the lasting changes we need.

So here’s to the women’s leadership and engagement that brought us the 19th Amendment. It is my hope that future celebrations of progress for women include not just pay equity but rightful promotions. When that happens, we will not only celebrate but also reap the economic and policy rewards.

To learn more about the history of the 19th Amendment and the key leaders and documents that made it a reality, I’d highly suggest following along with the National Archives this month, as they share suffrage stories and publish inspirational and educational materials on their website. I look forward to reading and sharing these great resources for learning about our country’s history.

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Trump's Manufactured "Riots"

8/3/2020

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Chaos started (Portland, Oregon) when President Trump said “the locals couldn’t handle it.” First, he called on states to “dominate protesters.” Then, he directed federal agencies to increase their presence to protect federal property including statues and monuments even though several years earlier he pardoned Ammon Bundy, whose armed militia took over federal buildings in Oregon. What motivated Trump’s action was not helping locals but his latest sinking poll numbers and just three months to recover.

Governor Kate Brown of Oregon shared that the locals had things under their control and unrest was calming down following the protests of George Floyd’s murder at the hands of police officers. Local officials were united with the Governor on dealing with it locally. Then Trump sends in the Feds and everything explodes. Compounding the problem, the officers Trump sent in were not trained for such activities and the pushback against the militarized federal deployment naturally followed. Keep in mind, the vast majority of the protesters are energized young people, moms and dads, and veterans exercising their Constitutional Rights on the concerns they have about the current directions of our country.

Former Chief Justice Rehnquist was quoted saying, “Police power is reserved for the states.” I believe firmly that those who commit violence against others and engage in the destruction of property should be prosecuted under applicable criminal laws. That should not be a matter of serious debate, and local officials with state support can handle the protest situations without federal intervention. The President should be taking a leadership role instead on the coronavirus crisis, where national leadership would have and can still make a world of difference.

What we have here is all politics. Trump is trying to duplicate President Nixon’s 1968 strategy where he used similar tactics to totally disrupt the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The national press coverage that followed totally overwhelmed any positive message that could come from the convention and made “law and order” a successful campaign theme through the November election.

Now Trump is taking actions ostensibly intended to advance the interests of law and order, but one patently designed for the purpose of creating division, heightening levels of fear and anger, and advancing his reelection prospects. Trump has repeatedly, over time suggested that Democrat-led and sanctuary cities are filled with crime. Now, he is threatening to send more “troops” of militarized federal officers from Border Patrol and other agencies into these areas to use force against American citizens.

The Battle of Portland and Trump’s military-style force against citizens exercising their Constitutional rights to seek greater equality brings to light larger questions for our nation. Who is creating the real source of carnage within our country? Who should be the object of greatest scorn and attention? Who presents the greatest threat to Americans, to our institutions and our values? I think it is fair to ask who has inflicted the most pain on other Americans and who is most responsible for damage to the economy of this country. Is it a Chicago gang member whose violent acts are disruptive to neighborhoods and cause great pain (even death) to other individuals and families? Is it the elected leaders who refuse to increase the minimum wage while actively dismantling the social safety net? The gang member’s conduct certainly deserves condemnation and should be punished. But his or her impact, however, is numerically and geographically constrained.

In contrast, by distracting the American people with unneeded use of Federal Law Enforcement Officers, by dismissing the reality and severity of the coronavirus and encouraging activity that would spread the virus, Trump has eviscerated the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans. His chaotic and cavalier response to the coronavirus pandemic as well as the intentional rejection of scientific opinion on how most effectively to address it has contributed to the deaths of tens of thousands of Americans and to illness and unemployment for millions.

For a superb in depth analysis with historical context, read the piece “Trump’s Wag-the-Dog War” by Thomas Friedman, Opinion Columnist for the New York Times. Friedman said, “This notion of Trump commanding a “surge” of federal law enforcement troops into Democratically-governed cities is appalling in the extreme.”

Without a doubt, these actions serve to create further division in our country, at a time when we desperately need to heal and work to find better, more peaceful, and more just ways forward for our communities and nation.

A scene from Portland, Oregon [Photo: Reuters]

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Some VP Thoughts for Joe Biden

7/29/2020

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Joe Biden, sometime very soon, as the Democratic Presidential Nominee, you are going to have to make a decision on your running mate. So whether you will see this blog or not, here is what I think about your options. My views are based on years of experience in politics as a citizen (I voted for Truman in ‘48 at Smolan Grade School) and in elective office as well as my concern for my grandchildren and their future given the impossible challenges we face as a nation.

Of the potential running mates that are mentioned most frequently, Stacy Abrams is a real talent that has emerged on the National scene in a big way and very quickly. She would clearly bring a passion for change that would help excite the younger generation and has demonstrated her capacity to lead change with communication and organizational skills so necessary to succeed. I think she needs more national seasoning but certainly could help your administration in a number of different ways.

Kamala Harris gets lots of attention and understandably so. From starting in a local elected office, she quickly moved to being State Attorney General, and now represents California in the United States Senate. As a woman of color with national standing, it is no surprise she is on your list of potential running mates. She has the potential problems that come with being a former prosecutor. But, overall, her strong and effective voice in the Senate and her ability to take the Trump administration and its officials to task in committee hearings and elsewhere has certainly earned her serious consideration for the Vice Presidency or for other roles down the road.

Not surprisingly, Senator Elizabeth Warren gets a lot of attention. She is very bright, passionate, and has a balanced set of experiences that make her a logical option. She has not only her Senate experience but as well being a part of the Obama Administration leading the then newly established agency to protect the consumers interests. She clearly will be an important ally, especially from a policy perspective. The question is in what position. I would definitely make the best use of her talents for sure if you can get the Republican Governor of Massachusetts to appoint a quality Democrat to her seat.

There are other prospects getting attention and rightfully so. Governors like Gretchen Whitmer from Michigan and Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico are showing real leadership under fire, but I think their potential opportunity will come down the road. Susan Rice was in the Obama Administration but has never run for office and her focus has been at a high-level advising rather than executive leadership positions. This leaves us with Congresswoman Val Demings from Florida and Senator Tammy Duckworth from Illinois, unless, Joe, you have a big surprise for us.

Earlier, I thought Congresswoman Val Demings from Florida would be the best. Her job on the Impeachment team to represent the House was outstanding and gave her substantive national exposure. She is certainly smart and a great communicator. What also caught my attention was her experience as a Police Chief in Orlando Florida, a state that will be key with the Electoral College. Her piece in the Washington Post giving the Minneapolis police hell had more punch coming from her and reinforced her support for change. She was certainly not born with a silver spoon in her mouth and will be able to identify with millions of Americans regardless of color.

But I did some more checking and learned a couple things from my contacts in Florida. I was reminded that with so many Congressional districts in Florida, her statewide political clout is likely limited and 25 years on the police force could have some risks that have not surfaced yet. However, she is clearly another talent to keep an eye on.

Of the names circulated the most at this point, that leaves Senator Tammy Duckworth from Illinois as, I believe, the best choice. Early on, I didn’t even think of her as much of an option, but then she started getting more attention so I went online and got acquainted. Born in Thailand, her father was a retired Marine who was working for the United Nations Refugee Program. Her public service leadership experience at both the state and national administrative level followed by two successful terms in Congress and now in the United States Senate, certainly gives her solid and broad credentials. FYI, for more depth Google “16 Things You Might Not Know About Tammy Duckworth.” You will, I think, be amazed.

As a woman of color, who has sacrificed much for her love of this country, Senator Duckworth would be a significant asset for winning in November. But she also has what might be most important. In talking to several of my political friends, the question that came up most was who is most ready to step in from day one to be your successor? That day will come, and the huge problems we have will only be addressed by strong leadership over a significant period of time, thus making your choice for Vice President even more important. Senator Tammy Duckworth would be the valuable partner you will need, Joe, as well as the strongest leadership credentials to help return this country to the policies and actions that restore our nation’s reputation at home and overseas.

Mr. Vice President, you certainly have your pick of some outstanding potential VP’s, along with a host of exciting talent to build your administration around. But first, it’s incumbent on all of us to do everything in our power to make sure there is no second term for the Trump administration. As you’ve rightly pointed out on the campaign trail, our country can recover from one term of this, but after two, the damage would be irreparable. The stakes are simply too high to get this one wrong.

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The Kansas GOP’s Assault on Health Care

7/20/2020

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My last blog asked whether Republicans would ever stand up to President Trump, speak truth to power, and help set us on a cooperative path to address critical needs in our country. In that blog, I identified Kansas Republican leaders from times past who kept the common good in the forefront of their political decision-making and who, I believe, would not have hesitated to speak out in opposition to the dishonesty, the flights from reality, the manifest errors, and the cynical divisiveness that have characterized actions of this President and his administration.

I may not always have agreed with the policies of those past Republican leaders, but I never doubted that they were motivated by a determination to act in the best interests of our state and country. Today, however, that doesn’t seem to be the case. With a few exceptions, the current crop of elected Kansas Republicans has chosen far right wing ideology and loyalty to Trumpism over the very real needs and interests of Kansas citizens. This choice is starkly reflected in their approach to health care and health insurance, especially given the presence of a pandemic that has caused suffering and devastating casualties across our country and the world.

The most publicized of their actions has been the obstinate resistance to Medicaid expansion among Republican legislative leadership—particularly in the Kansas Senate. This resistance has to-date cost Kansas taxpayers and businesses approximately $4 billion in forgone federal funding; has deprived tens of thousands of hard-working but low-income Kansans of the opportunity to obtain health insurance coverage; and has done untold, long-term damage to the survivability of rural hospitals in the state.

The Republican leadership's obstruction comes despite the fact that Medicaid Expansion is favored by a wide majority of Kansans—and even by a majority of both houses of the Kansas Legislature. Interestingly, in a statewide election earlier this month, the Oklahoma electorate approved Medicaid Expansion in that state—leaving Kansas as one of the few outliers still refusing to participate in the program.

Although the Medicaid expansion issue has received the most attention, an effort by Attorney General Derek Schmidt to have the entire Affordable Care Act (ACA) thrown out would have broader and even more devastating consequences for Kansans. General Schmidt has joined with a number of other Republican attorneys general in filing a lawsuit seeking to have the ACA declared unconstitutional. The case is now before the United States Supreme Court.

I think we all realize that undermining and ultimately eliminating the ACA, because it was an achievement of the Obama Administration, has been a continuing objective of Trump. Who can forget the fictional Trump campaign promise to offer a simpler, less expensive, and universally available health insurance program? Such a pipe dream, of course, was never real and has never materialized. Instead, the ACA has been the target of unrelenting attack by the Trump administration and his minions, including Attorney General Schmidt. Trump and the Attorney General have chosen ideology (or perhaps simple jealousy) over the financial, emotional and physical health of literally millions of Americans and hundreds of thousands of Kansans.

What are the specific consequences to Kansans if Attorney General Schmidt and his colleagues prevail? First, of course, their efforts would deprive more than 100,000 Kansans of health insurance coverage that they have been or would be able to obtain under the ACA—but that is only the beginning.

Additionally, Attorney General Schmidt’s efforts would eliminate the possibility of Medicaid expansion. Tens of thousands of hard working, but low income, Kansans would be deprived of the opportunity to acquire health insurance through Medicaid. They and our state’s hospitals and businesses would continue to suffer without the possibility of legislative relief.

And there is much more. If the Attorney General prevails, protections for those having pre-existing health conditions would be taken away. The ACA prohibition against placing lifetime or annual limits on the dollar value of coverage for essential health care benefits would be eliminated. There would no longer be a requirement that health plans extend coverage to dependent children up to the age of 26. Beyond that, a host of other health care benefits for individuals ranging from transparency requirements to limitations on eligibility waiting periods would also be lost.

I do not know what decision the Supreme Court may reach. I do know, however, that Attorney General Schmidt and others who recklessly seek repeal of the ACA have elevated loyalty to Trump and his agenda above the very real needs and interests of individual Kansans and Americans. They have departed from any path that elevates the common good above political ideology. In doing that, I believe they dishonor the tradition of their Kansas Republican predecessors and all those sensible representatives who prioritize listening and doing right by Kansans, rather than scoring political points. They should be called to account.

The people of Kansas deserve leaders who will represent their interests and work for them, rather than for themselves or their own partisan gain. This November's election will be yet another opportunity to bring this closer to a reality for the Kansans who need it most.

Kansas Attorney General, Derek Schmidt [Photo by: John Hanna/AP]

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The Kansas GOP’s Assault on Health Care

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