Kansas Democrats are optimistic going into the November general election that they can gain a strong hold in the state Legislature.
About 200 Democratic officials, candidates and voters gathered in Wichita for the annual DemoFest to set policy agendas and build momentum ahead of Election Day. After several conservative lawmakers lost their primary races to more moderate candidates, Democrats are hopeful they can take more seats in both the Senate and the House.
Sen. David Haley, who's running unopposed for his seat in Wyandotte County, says Kansans are paying more attention to the state’s economy this election year, and they want see a change in leadership.
“We’re optimistic after the primary," he says. "We’re also sure that we can complete the task of weeding out a few more in November at the state and hopefully the federal level."
Ma’Ko’Quah Abigail Jones with Kansas Young Democrats thinks her party could even win over some Republicans who are frustrated with Gov. Sam Brownback’s tax plan.
“Getting them to vote Democrat is going to be really difficult, but if they can relate to some of the issues that moderate Democrats bring to the table, I think that’s the way to do that.”
And just as moderate Republicans have gained favor over conservative lawmakers, moderate Democrats could be the key to securing more votes.
There is a Democratic candidate in each of the 40 Senate races, and 91 Democrats running for the Kansas House.
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