Will Governor Brownback hear the people? Probably not.
The Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Ft. Hayes State University has a
just released survey that shows the Kansas legislature and Governor Sam Brownback are completely at odds with the priorities of the majority of Kansas.
Some of the key findings:
High concern for the economy and potential threats to the welfare of respondent’s families are indicated by the survey, with 41% saying they were “very concerned” and 70% saying they were at least “somewhat concerned” that the Kansas economy will seriously threaten them or their family’s welfare.
Concerned about the dramatic tax cuts and the $400 million budget shortfall? Check.
Respondents were asked whether they supported or opposed Kansas expanding Medicare eligibility under provisions of the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare. Of those responding, 58% supported expansion, while 42% opposed expanding Medicare under the Affordable Care Act.
Expand Medicaid? Check.
When asked about marijuana policy, over two thirds of respondent favored allowing medical marijuana in Kansas, while almost as many (63%) favored decriminalizing recreational marijuana so that personal possession would only involve a fine, rather than jail time.
Legalize and/or decriminalize marijuana? Check.
Fifty six percent of respondents said they opposed the use of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in Kansas.
Oppose fracking in Kansas? Check.
When asked if legal gun owners should be allowed to carry concealed weapons in Kansas without first obtaining training and certification, three quarters of respondents indicated they opposed this policy.
Oppose wild west gun laws (or lack thereof)? Big, big check.
The Kansas legislature and Governor Sam Brownback appear to be doing the exact opposite of what the majority of Kansans want them to be doing. With a huge election year creeping ever closer, these Kansans are going to have to find a way to get to the polls in 2016 and make certain they have the leadership to steer the state in the direction the majority would like to see it go.
Ad astra per aspra, Kansas. We can turn this ship around. If you'd like to get more involved, please consider attending the first ever Daily Kos Connects regional event, which happens to be in downtown Kansas City, MO this weekend.
