What are the top three issues facing the state of Kansas, and how would you address them, if elected?

My vision is a state government that returns to the traditional Kansas values of family, faith, community and responsibility. A government that not only supports these values by the laws it enacts, but whose leaders govern in accordance with truth and integrity. The motivating principle of government is to do what is right and just for the common good, not self-interest and money. Three initiatives to accomplish this:

Prioritizing the moral issues: Acknowledgment of government’s responsibility to distinguish between right and wrong. We will never have good schools or healthy society if we continue to allow the moral foundations of our state to be undermined. Affirming the sanctity of life, the integrity of the family and the freedom to educate our children according to our convictions should priorities.

Restoring local control: More important than merely making government more efficient, is shifting the power and decision-making ability back to our families and local communities. A first step is to require state agencies to identify services that could more effectively and economically be handled by the private sector. Returning resources to the people will enable families, churches and civic groups to more effectively meet the needs of our communities.

Reduced spending and taxation: I favor a significant reduction of government spending and taxes. I would ask three questions before voting for new appropriations: Does the program fall within government’s purpose? Is the government uniquely qualified to provide the service? Can we afford it? The family is best able to provide for its members, provided it is allowed to fund itself.

Should additional state funds be earmarked for the education of Kansas children in K-12?

I’m committed to improving the quality of education at a lower cost. Kansas ranks low in the proportion of tax dollars spent on classroom instruction. Quality depends upon outstanding teachers and solid curriculum. Private and home schools have shown that an exceptional education can be obtained at a fraction of the cost of our current funding. Allowing parents the freedom of choice, rewarding teachers through merit pay and restoring a “back to the basics” curriculum that reflects the parents’ values all need to be championed for public schools and would eliminate the need to raise taxes.

What unique qualifications would you bring to the job of state senator?

A firm commitment to moral principles as a basis for governing. An ability to see the core principles lying at the heart of the issues of the day. A humility in seeking advice from others in the proper application of principles to the specific issues. An independence from special interest groups, and a willingness to stand firm for the common good. A specific vision for the state, and a set of priorities. A shared belief with George Washington that “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”

What should be done at the state level to handle the effects of growth in northeast Kansas?

A limited state government is concerned with issues of justice and order. Inasmuch as growth involves these issues the state should be involved. Development has occurred in Tonganoxie because of the attractiveness of the town and the quality of life. Reaping the benefits and dealing with the challenges of growth rightly belong at the local level. The state can effectively assist by respecting the authority of the local community, justly apportioning transportation dollars and reducing state levels of taxation.

What should be done at the state level to handle the effects of growth in northeast Kansas?

A limited state government is concerned with issues of justice and order. Inasmuch as growth involves these issues the state should be involved. Development has occurred in Tonganoxie because of the attractiveness of the town and the quality of life. Reaping the benefits and dealing with the challenges of growth rightly belong at the local level. The state can effectively assist by respecting the authority of the local community, justly apportioning transportation dollars and reducing state levels of taxation.