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 6
Pat Pettey (Democratic, incumbent)
The 2020 election was fairly won by President Joe Biden and has been confirmed by the states and by multiple court cases. Sadly, when Donald Trump loses on November 5 th we will be faced by this issue again.
The state of Kansas has a secure system and that is true in every county including Johnson & Wyandotte county. I visited the Wyandotte county election office earlier this year and they have put in place multiple safeguards on how materials are handled and counted. Access to control areas is limited and only those with the proper identification area.lowed in the classified areas. Workers are trained and both parties are always represented. Our citizens deserve to have a leader who respects democracy and their vote.
I will not and have not supported any legislation that makes a citizens access to voting harder. Unfortunately, Republicans will continue to try to chip away at early voting , drop boxes and the counting of advance voting ballots all of which help more voters vote.
Tabitha Burt (Republican)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
