2024 Primary Election Recap
Low Voter Turnout in Primary
The Kansas Secretary of State’s office predicted that statewide voter turnout for the August 6 Primary Election would be around 24%, similar to 2016 numbers. But, turnout in the first step by parties and candidates to fill all 165 legislative seats, was just over 16%. This low turnout when elections are increasingly determined in the Primary, means that the motivated wings or bases of both parties, have a disproportionate impact on results. For example, the outcome in the 9 House races and 4 Senate races that were Primary contests only, were determined by less than 20% of eligible voters. Moreover, most races which do have contested General Election races will not be competitive based upon party registration in the various legislative districts. After the dust settled, 52 of 125 House (41.6%) and 9 of 40 (22.5%) Senate seats were settled. Of the remaining contested 73 House and 31 Senate races, we expect there to be only a handful of competitive races in the Senate and around a dozen in the House. In a year when Republican leaders are fighting to retain or grow their supermajorities, Democrats, led by Governor Laura Kelly and her PAC, will be amplifying efforts to pick up seats in the General Election and erode the veto-proof Republican majorities. There will be millions of dollars spent to defend or pick up less than 20 of the 165 legislative seats as we head to the Tuesday, November 5th General Election.
There are no statewide races this election cycle, but there was one U.S. Congressional race that drew broad interest. The 2nd Congressional District surprisingly opened when Congressman Jake LaTurner (R-Topeka) announced he would not seek reelection. That motivated five Republicans to file in hopes of replacing LaTurner in the Republican-leaning district. Former State Senator and Attorney General Derek Schmidt (R-Independence) bested his four opponents with 53% of the vote. Schmidt, who narrowly lost to Kelly in the last gubernatorial race, certainly benefited from his name identification and fundraising prowess. He will face off against former Congresswoman Nancy Boyda (D-Baldwin City) in November.
KIAPAC
Now that the Kansas Legislature has adjourned, election season is in full swing. The incredible stress that has been placed on all aspects of American life in recent weeks and months makes the prospect of political engagement unappealing to many. But the importance of targeted advocacy and meaningful participation in policymaking is evident. KAIA is the trusted voice for Kansas insurance agents and brokers—always working with lawmakers on policies affecting the insurance industry and our small business clients. Effective advocacy does not begin and end according to legislative sessions. Effective advocacy is rooted in relationships and requires investment in mutual understanding and support. Our voice as independent insurance agent advocates is amplified by our political giving through KIAPAC. From taxes to tort reform, the Kansas Legislature each year considers bills that impact independent agents and their businesses. KIAPAC is a critical part of the association's efforts to build relationships with Kansas elected officials and to keep members of the Legislature informed about issues impacting small businesses and the independent agent system. If you haven’t already, please consider becoming a KIAPAC member today so that our advocacy remains strong and effective for Kansas insurance agents.
