April 15, 2024 Chair Update
Hello fellow Democrats! I hope you’ve been enjoying this beautiful weather.
What a busy few weeks it’s been. The first quarter of this year flew by, and I’m excited to let you know what we’ve been up to.
WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO
LEGISLATIVE APPRECIATION DAY: We were honored to host our legislators and their staff in our new KDP office! Our Senators and Representatives work extremely hard during session, and it’s important for us to celebrate them. Thank you to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to join us.
DNC BOOTCAMP: Our staff attended a bootcamp for state parties hosted by the Democratic National Committee. We networked with parties across the West and Midwest, and learned valuable skills to help us in our fight.
The KDP had a strong showing. I was thrilled to kick off the bootcamp with an early morning welcome, and our own Jonathan Jones served as an outstanding panelist during programming. Thank you to the DNC, ASDC, and all included state parties for all their hard work.
TRIP TO NEBRASKA: Last weekend, I was invited to Nebraska to give the keynote speech at the Lancaster County Democrats’ fundraiser. It was an honor to speak, and it’s always inspiring to see other Midwestern Democrats. My family is from Nebraska and I hold the state very near to my heart. Thank you to the Lancaster Democrats for having me!
FUNDRAISER/LEGISLATIVE MEET & GREET: This past Thursday I was proud to have some of our legislative candidates from across the state join us for a fundraiser in Johnson County. It was inspiring to see so many of them in one place, putting in the time and effort to make Kansas a better place for us all.
Happy Birthday on April 10th to our amazing Senate Leader Dinah Sykes as well!
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
The Legislature is currently in recess, but here were some of the highlights from last couple of weeks:
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In the final few hours before recess, the legislature passed HB 2036 –– a bipartisan tax bill providing cuts for everyday Kansans that Democrats have been fighting hard for.
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Republicans continued their efforts to chip away at abortion care by passing HB 2749 and HB 2436. On top of that, they blocked efforts by Senate Democrats to protect IVF treatment.
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In a huge win for workers and unions, Governor Kelly approved an expanded worker’s compensation bill, SB 430. This legislation raises the maximum benefits available for those who get hurt while on the job.
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We’re watching SB 233, a horrific bill that would deny trans children and their families access to lifesaving medical transition healthcare. Trans lives matter, and we will continue to fight for and with our transgender neighbors.
WHAT’S COMING UP/WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT
The KDP is traveling to Chicago this week to prepare for the Democratic National Convention in August! The Convention always reminds me of the power of democracy, and why I continue this important work.
FINAL THOUGHTS
April 4 marked 56 years since the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I’m motivated by Dr. King’s fearless leadership. We have a long way to go, but we are dedicated to fighting for justice, equality, and true equity.
I am inspired to continue this honorable work alongside each of you. Stay inspired, stay engaged, make good trouble, and make Kansas better for all of our neighbors.