The filing deadline has passed for the 2026 Primary Election. There were a few last-minute twists and turns in the race for Governor.
The Republican primary will look like this:
Ty Masterson / Jeffrey Klemp
Charlotte O’Hara / Michelle Dombrosky
Nick Reinecker / Katy Reinecker
Stacy L Rogers / Michael W Smith
Philip Sarnecki / Joy Eakins
Vicki Schmidt / Joe Newland
Scott Schwab / Ken Rahjes
There will also be a choice on the ballot for the 120th district – myself and a gentleman from Goodland – Paul Simoneau. I’m going to break the unwritten campaign rule that says you have to be negative about your opponent. That’s not the way I do things. I’m going to say some good things about my opponent.
I believe Paul is a class act. He sent me a text message letting me know he was filing. He didn’t have to do that. That was a courtesy from a true gentleman. I responded with a voicemail and text-reply welcoming him to the race. From what I’ve read on his website, he seems to certainly have the best interests of northwest Kansas at heart. I’m looking forward to a good race for the 120th that focuses on policy!
I’m glad voters will have a choice – it’s never a good thing for elected positions to become stagnant with no other choice on the ballot. I’ve represented the 120th District for ten years, but I’ve never considered this “my” seat. The seat belongs to the people of Cheyenne, Rawlins, Decatur, Sherman, Thomas, and Wallace counties. Just like a job interview, candidates should have to earn the spot… including incumbents!
