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 7
Ethan Corson (Democratic, incumbent)
I have always supported the right of Kansas women to make their own deeply personal healthcare decisions free from government interference. As such, I have consistently opposed legislation that flies in the face of the express will of the vast majority of Kansans, including the 79% of Senate 7 residents who voted on August 2, 2022 to protect bodily autonomy. I am proud to be the only candidate in this race endorsed by Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes.
I do not support new restrictions on abortion. Instead, we need to put into place protections for IVF, so Kansas women will know they’ll have access to assisted reproductive technology if they want to start or grow their family.
Dave Dannov (Republican)
I support the current law on abortions in Kansas and do not believe that there should be any additional administrative burdens forced upon a woman who is already making an extremely personal decision. It should be between her, her family, and her health care provider.
