Earlier this summer, the Post asked our readers what issues you wanted to hear candidates in contested races address leading up to the Nov. 5. election.
Based on that feedback, we developed a five-item questionnaire centering the issues most important to residents across Johnson County.
Each day this week, we’ll publish the candidates’ responses to one question. Read the candidates’ responses to the previous question about immigration, U.S. Post Office delays and elections.
Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
Abortion has been a salient issue for voters ever since the overturning of Roe v. Wade two years ago. In a much-watched vote in 2022, Kansans voted to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution. At the federal level, some Republicans have pressed for a national ban on abortions starting as early as 15 weeks. If elected, would you support or oppose a federal ban on abortion? Why or why not?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
Rep. Sharice Davids (Democratic, incumbent)
I have been very clear: I will never support a national abortion ban. My opponent may say the same, but the company he keeps tells a different story. He is backed by extreme politicians pushing for a national abortion ban without exceptions for rape, incest, or the life of the mother. And he’s endorsed by Kansans for Life, which supports a national abortion ban and was the primary driver behind the 2022 anti-abortion amendment rejected by Kansas voters from both parties.
After Roe v. Wade was overturned, more women have died after being turned away from emergency rooms, as doctors, fearful of losing their jobs, hesitate to provide essential care. These are the tragic consequences of harsh new state laws restricting reproductive care, and my opponent supports state politicians making these decisions.
I agree with the strong majority of Kansans that a woman’s health care decisions should absolutely remain between herself, her family, and her doctor, without the interference of politicians. I will continue fighting to protect our freedoms and ensure every person has control over their own body and future.
Steve Roberts (Libertarian)
Question 4 asks if I would support a federal ban on abortion. I would not.
In the limited space typically afforded third-party candidates in our two-party country, I will suggest that voters go to www.Thirdpartywinner.com to see our stance on abortion in full detail.
We must get past equating “pro-life” with “ban abortion.” The way we save babies is to teach children that everyone matters. All people matter.
Prasanth Reddy (Republican)
I’ve been very clear on my stance—I do not, and will not, support a national abortion ban. While abortion is a deeply personal and sensitive issue, I believe decisions should remain at the state level, where Kansans can decide what is best for their communities. In 2022, the people of Kansas made their voices heard on this issue, and I respect the outcome.
At the federal level, I oppose efforts to impose a one-size-fits-all solution. This is not the role of the federal government, and I will continue to stand against any proposals that seek to implement a national ban. We must respect states’ rights and the democratic process that allows citizens to make these decisions for themselves.
Coming up:
Tomorrow we will publish the candidates’ responses to the following question:
“Climate change is here,” as one reader put it, and several others mentioned their desire to see candidates articulate how they’d address climate change. Still others want to know if candidates accept or deny the science that shows a link between human activity and increasing global temperatures. Do you believe that human-caused climate change is a reality? What, if any, measures would you support in Congress to help address it?
