Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Kansas voters in 2022 rejected the “Value Them Both” amendment that, if enacted, would have declared that the state constitution does not include a right to abortion. In the two legislative sessions since, lawmakers have tried to pass new restrictions on abortion, some of which have been blocked by judicial rulings. Are you satisfied with the current laws and restrictions on abortion in Kansas? Do you think access should be expanded in any way? Do you support new restrictions on abortion? And if so, what kind?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
District 35
Jason Anderson (Democratic)
Kansas voters made their voices heard loud and clear in 2022 by rejecting the “Value Them Both” amendment and affirming that the right to reproductive healthcare, including abortion, is protected by our state constitution. This was a pivotal moment in our state’s history, showing that Kansans across the political spectrum support a woman’s right to make her own healthcare decisions without government interference.
I am satisfied with the current legal protections in place, and I believe that access to abortion should not be further restricted. In fact, I would support efforts to expand access to reproductive healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. This includes not only abortion services but also comprehensive healthcare like birth control, maternal health services, and access to fertility treatments. Every woman deserves the ability to make informed decisions about her body and her family, and the state should not stand in the way of that.
Moving forward, I will oppose any efforts by the Kansas Legislature to introduce new restrictions on reproductive healthcare. Kansans have already made their stance clear, and we must respect that decision. I will work to ensure that women in Kansas continue to have access to safe, legal, and accessible reproductive healthcare.
TJ Rose (Republican)
Did not provide the Post with a response.
