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 9
Beverly Gossage (Republican, incumbent)
For instance, they support limits on late-term abortion, oppose taxpayer funding of abortion, want babies born alive to receive medical treatment, and are in favor of providing resources to women facing difficult pregnancies and making adoption more affordable.
Those ideas – which bring us together – have been my focus. IVF and birth control are protected under Kansas law and will remain so. In addition, the state collects data on all kinds of surgical and medical procedures and has for decades – and it’s always voluntary and anonymous.
So, the attacks we’ve seen from the left have been completely untrue, and it’s sad to see them rely on divisiveness on a topic where there is potential for so much unity.
Norman Mallicoat (Democratic)
The people of Kansas have spoken on this issue in 2022. No additional laws are required.
