Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
The top issue for many Post readers remains candidates’ stances on the 2020 election, which former President Trump continues to claim without evidence was stolen from him. That has played out in Johnson County with a years-long and ultimately fruitless investigation by the current sheriff into local election procedures. Many of our readers express concern that that investigation has sown distrust in local elections. Do you believe President Biden won the 2020 election fair and square? Do you trust and have confidence in county and state election systems? If elected, would you support legislation that, in any way, would modify or place new restrictions on voting in Kansas?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
District 5
Henry Johns (Democratic)
I believe President Biden won the 2020 election, that it was fair and handled with great seriousness by all the elected and appointed officials and volunteers.
I have total trust in our county clerks and election officials to follow the laws of our state. If elected, I would not support modifications, unless they made voting easier, and I would not support new restrictions on voting in Kansas.
Some say voting is not a fundamental right in Kansas, I believe it is and should be. I believe in one person one vote as a corner stone of our democratic republic.
Carrie Barth (Republican, incumbent)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
