Food Systems Voter Guide- Primary 2026

Agricultural Opportunity & Land Use

Strong food systems start with farmers. KFAN supports equitable land access, fair markets, and responsible land use policies that sustain producers and protect working lands for future generations.

What specific policies have you/would you support to help beginning, small, and mid-sized farmers access land and remain economically viable in Kansas?

“To secure the future of our agricultural economy, we must lower barriers to entry for beginning and small-scale farmers. I strongly support expanding and better promoting proven programs that make land acquisition and startup capital more accessible, such as the Kansas Development Finance Authority (KDFA) Beginner Bonds Program and USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans. Pairing these programs with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) funding ensures new farmers have the financial resources to access land and implement vital, long-term conservation efforts from day one.

Agricultural sustainability will require identifying and developing local markets. To boost the economic viability of small farms and increase regional food security, we must invest in programs that connect producers directly to their communities, such as the USDA’s Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) and Value-Added Producer Grants, which help farmers increase their profitability.

By strengthening these programs, improving outreach to educate and connect beginning farmers to funding and training opportunities (through partners like K-State Extension and the Kansas Rural Center), and prioritizing beginning and small farms in state agricultural policy, we can build a more resilient and diverse agricultural economy in Kansas.”

Food Access & Security

Every Kansan deserves reliable access to affordable, healthy food. KFAN advances policies that reduce hunger, strengthen nutrition programs, and invest in local food systems so all communities can thrive.

What actions would you/have you take(en) to reduce food insecurity and improve access to affordable, healthy food in both rural and urban Kansas communities?

“In the 2026 legislative session, I voted no on Senate Bill 387, which would have created unnecessary barriers for school districts seeking federal funding for student lunches. I firmly oppose any effort to make it harder for schools to feed our kids. Nutritious meals at school improve academic performance, boost attendance, and support children’s overall well-being. We should be lowering costs for working families and setting our students up for success.

I also voted no on House Bill 2731, which added burdensome red tape for vulnerable Kansans seeking food and medical assistance. As governor, I will continue to strongly oppose President Trump’s proposed SNAP cuts and any attempts, whether federal or state, to weaken our food safety net. I will work every day to protect and expand access to food assistance for families in need.

I also support, and will include in my own budget, Governor Kelly’s proposal to allocate $2.5 million annually to eliminate co-payments for K-12 students on reduced-price lunches, effectively making their meals free. This initiative benefits more than 34,000 students statewide. I unsuccessfully tried to add these funds to the budget this year through a floor amendment and am determined to get this done as Governor.

Beyond protecting existing programs, I support expanding access to healthy, locally grown food by strengthening local food systems. This includes participation in the USDA Local Food Promotion Program, Value-Added Producer Grants, and the Kansas Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to help small and beginning farmers connect directly with schools, food pantries, and communities across rural and urban Kansas. By supporting local and regional food markets, we can simultaneously reduce food insecurity and strengthen Kansas agriculture.”

Water Stewardship

Water is essential to Kansas agriculture and community well-being. KFAN promotes policies that conserve water, protect water quality, and ensure long-term sustainability for our farms, ecosystems, and communities.

What policies or investments would you/have you support(ed) to help Kansas farmers, ranchers, and local communities adapt to drought, declining aquifers, and other water-related challenges?

“Kansas needs a serious, long-term water strategy that matches the scale of the challenge. That starts with stronger planning and investment, voluntary, incentive-based support for conservation and efficiency, and close coordination with producers, groundwater management districts, local communities, and state agencies. We need to protect the Ogallala and other critical water resources while also supporting practical tools that help producers remain productive and competitive. “

Bonus Question

How will you/Have you ensure(d) that the voices of farmers, food producers, and community members are included in decisions about agriculture, food access, and water resources?

“I have travelled across the state listening to and learning firsthand the struggles farmers, producers, and rural communities face. I’ve met with dozens of county farm bureaus and toured farms that produce everything from commodity crops to dairy, beef cattle, and specialty products like produce. With the loss of 700 Kansas farms in 2025 alone, it is clear that now more than ever, Kansas needs a governor who will uplift the voices of farmers and ensure they have a seat at the table.

“As governor, I will consult directly with members of the agricultural community on all decisions that affect agriculture, ensuring that their knowledge and expertise guide state policy. I will use the experience I gained as Chief of Staff at the International Trade Administration at the U.S. Department of Commerce, opening markets for American producers, to help our farmers and ranchers access markets and sell their products. I will personally go on as many trade missions as it takes to rebuild the markets decimated by President Trump’s tariffs.

Agriculture is our state’s biggest economic driver. Our rural communities must be involved in the policy formulation process, not left behind.”

Agricultural Opportunity & Land Use

Strong food systems start with farmers. KFAN supports equitable land access, fair markets, and responsible land use policies that sustain producers and protect working lands for future generations.

What specific policies have you/would you support to help beginning, small, and mid-sized farmers access land and remain economically viable in Kansas?

“Kansas family farmers are the backbone of our economy, but too many beginning, small, and mid-sized producers are being squeezed by rising costs, corporate consolidation, and out-of-state interests buying up land. As governor, I'll expand access to affordable assistance for new farmers, strengthen local and regional markets so producers receive fair prices, and support conservation programs that keep working lands productive for future generations of Kansas farmers. I also believe we must protect Kansas farmland from development that doesn't benefit local communities. That's why I've called for a statewide moratorium on new data centers until we have safeguards to protect farmland, water resources, affordable energy, and local decision-making. My priority is supporting family farmers, not large corporations or special interests, and ensuring Kansas farms have the opportunity to succeed and pass their businesses on to the next generation.”

Food Access & Security

Every Kansan deserves reliable access to affordable, healthy food. KFAN advances policies that reduce hunger, strengthen nutrition programs, and invest in local food systems so all communities can thrive.

What actions would you/have you take(en) to reduce food insecurity and improve access to affordable, healthy food in both rural and urban Kansas communities?

“No Kansan should have to choose between paying the bills and putting healthy food on the table. As governor, I'll strengthen nutrition programs, support schools and community organizations fighting hunger, and invest in local and regional food systems that connect Kansas farmers with Kansas families. I also support expanding Medicaid, lowering everyday costs, and creating good-paying jobs, because reducing food insecurity starts with making life more affordable. Building a stronger food system means supporting producers, reducing hunger, and strengthening communities across our state, and that’s exactly what I intend to do as governor.”

Water Stewardship

Water is essential to Kansas agriculture and community well-being. KFAN promotes policies that conserve water, protect water quality, and ensure long-term sustainability for our farms, ecosystems, and communities.

What policies or investments would you/have you support(ed) to help Kansas farmers, ranchers, and local communities adapt to drought, declining aquifers, and other water-related challenges?

“Water is a critical issue in Kansas, as many communities are already carefully managing limited water supplies. And we know long-term pressures on the Ogallala Aquifer continue to affect Kansas agriculture and rural communities. As Governor, I’ll fight for a moratorium on data centers until we have guardrails in place to protect our water systems, keep our agricultural ecosystems free from pollution, and make sure our farmers and ranchers are being supported. This isn't about stopping development, it's about creating a system for progress on our own terms — not the terms of outside corporate interests — that centers around empowering local communities, safeguarding our water supply, and protecting farmers. “

Bonus Question

How will you/Have you ensure(d) that the voices of farmers, food producers, and community members are included in decisions about agriculture, food access, and water resources?

“I grew up on a rural farm and know firsthand how policy actually affects our farmers and ranchers. The people most affected by decisions on agriculture, food access, and water resources must have a seat at the table. As a legislator, I've made it a priority to listen to farmers, ranchers, local leaders, and community organizations before supporting major policy changes, and I'll bring that same approach as governor. I'll prioritize transparency, open communication, and local decision-making, ensuring farmers, food producers, and community members have a meaningful voice in shaping policies that affect their livelihoods and the communities that rely on them. Kansas works best when government listens to the people.”

As of the publication deadline, this candidate did not respond to the Kansas Food Action Network's questionnaire.

As of the publication deadline, this candidate did not respond to the Kansas Food Action Network's questionnaire.

Agricultural Opportunity & Land Use

Strong food systems start with farmers. KFAN supports equitable land access, fair markets, and responsible land use policies that sustain producers and protect working lands for future generations.

What specific policies have you/would you support to help beginning, small, and mid-sized farmers access land and remain economically viable in Kansas?

“To keep government out of the way of small specialized farmers. I was raised on a farm in Bourbon County, I know the entrepreneurship of small farmers is the most valuable asset we have. These small farmers have the drive to find ways to produce without the use of herbicides and pesticides. If government gets out of the way with unnecessary regulations (don't sell raw milk? How ridiculous, I was raised on it) and simply shine a light on what these folks are doing and how to connect with them.”

Food Access & Security

Every Kansan deserves reliable access to affordable, healthy food. KFAN advances policies that reduce hunger, strengthen nutrition programs, and invest in local food systems so all communities can thrive.

What actions would you/have you take(en) to reduce food insecurity and improve access to affordable, healthy food in both rural and urban Kansas communities?

“Communication with the suppliers and growers of organic Kansas farms. Government isn't the answer and usually the problem.”

Water Stewardship

Water is essential to Kansas agriculture and community well-being. KFAN promotes policies that conserve water, protect water quality, and ensure long-term sustainability for our farms, ecosystems, and communities.

What policies or investments would you/have you support(ed) to help Kansas farmers, ranchers, and local communities adapt to drought, declining aquifers, and other water-related challenges?

“I have talked with folks in Western Kansas and the reality is that the Ogallala Aquifer is at a crisis point. This has been an issue with Colorado on the diversion and impoundment of the water from the Arkansas River. I believe the first lawsuit was filed in 1904. I don't have a magic bullet, but more drought resistant crops (but then you have the GMO issue). Water rights is a huge issue and through transparency and REAL communication with the stakeholders is an absolute necessity. AND A DATA CENTER IN GARDEN CITY??? Wow!!”

Bonus Question
How will you/Have you ensure(d) that the voices of farmers, food producers, and community members are included in decisions about agriculture, food access, and water resources?

“Make sure the door is open and they aren't closed out of the decision making.”

Agricultural Opportunity & Land Use

Strong food systems start with farmers. KFAN supports equitable land access, fair markets, and responsible land use policies that sustain producers and protect working lands for future generations.

What specific policies have you/would you support to help beginning, small, and mid-sized farmers access land and remain economically viable in Kansas?

“I will begin by finding ways to deter and prevent foreign entities from acquiring Kansas land.”

Food Access & Security

Every Kansan deserves reliable access to affordable, healthy food. KFAN advances policies that reduce hunger, strengthen nutrition programs, and invest in local food systems so all communities can thrive.

What actions would you/have you take(en) to reduce food insecurity and improve access to affordable, healthy food in both rural and urban Kansas communities?

“I would promote farmer's markets and propose property tax breaks for those who produce food through gardening.”

Water Stewardship

Water is essential to Kansas agriculture and community well-being. KFAN promotes policies that conserve water, protect water quality, and ensure long-term sustainability for our farms, ecosystems, and communities.

“I will fight to deschedule cannabis completely and eliminate the need for licensing when it comes to industrial cannabis. I will also look at other innovative ideas and how they might be implemented in the state of Kansas.”

What policies or investments would you/have you support(ed) to help Kansas farmers, ranchers, and local communities adapt to drought, declining aquifers, and other water-related challenges?

Bonus Question

How will you/Have you ensure(d) that the voices of farmers, food producers, and community members are included in decisions about agriculture, food access, and water resources?

“As a restaurant operator and gardener, besides operating on constitutionally conservative principles rooted in the Declaration of Independence, these issues and segments of Kansas citizens are my top priority.”

Agricultural Opportunity & Land Use

Strong food systems start with farmers. KFAN supports equitable land access, fair markets, and responsible land use policies that sustain producers and protect working lands for future generations.

What specific policies have you/would you support to help beginning, small, and mid-sized farmers access land and remain economically viable in Kansas?

“First, I support reducing the overall tax burden on farmland and addressing property tax pressures that can force family farms to sell or consolidate. When taxes rise faster than farm income, it becomes harder for young and beginning farmers to stay in agriculture or for the next generation to take over family operations. Stability and predictability in taxation are essential for long-term planning.

Second, we should strengthen pathways for beginning farmers to access land and capital. That includes encouraging intergenerational land transfers, supporting local ownership transitions, and expanding opportunities that help young farmers buy or lease land without being priced out by large-scale investors or corporate buyers. Keeping land in Kansas hands strengthens rural communities and preserves our agricultural heritage.

Third, I support reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens and compliance costs that often hit small and mid-sized producers the hardest. Regulations should protect land and resources, but they should also be practical, transparent, and designed with family farmers in mind rather than one-size-fits-all approaches that favor large operations.

Fourth, Kansas should prioritize agricultural economic development that supports homegrown producers, cooperatives, and value-added agriculture. When possible, we should focus on keeping processing, production, and profits local instead of shifting benefits to large out-of-state corporations.

Finally, rural economic policy should reflect the reality that strong farming communities depend on strong local economies. That means supporting infrastructure, rural broadband, and services that make it possible for families to live and work in rural Kansas.

Preserve the family farm, support the next generation of Kansas farmers, and ensure agriculture remains a locally rooted and economically viable way of life in our state.”

Food Access & Security

Every Kansan deserves reliable access to affordable, healthy food. KFAN advances policies that reduce hunger, strengthen nutrition programs, and invest in local food systems so all communities can thrive.

What actions would you/have you take(en) to reduce food insecurity and improve access to affordable, healthy food in both rural and urban Kansas communities?

First, the most effective long-term solution to food insecurity is a strong economy with good-paying jobs. I support policies that encourage small business growth, agriculture investment, and local entrepreneurship so families have the resources they need to provide for themselves. When Kansas businesses and farms succeed, communities are more stable and food becomes more accessible and affordable.

Second, we should support Kansas agriculture and local food production by reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens and encouraging direct-to-consumer markets such as farmers markets, local cooperatives, and farm-to-community partnerships. Keeping food production and distribution local helps lower costs and strengthens rural economies.

Third, I support improving infrastructure that connects rural producers to urban markets, including roads, transportation systems, and broadband. Efficient logistics reduce costs for producers and ultimately lower prices for consumers.

Fourth, we should ensure that assistance programs designed to address food insecurity are efficient, accountable, and targeted to those truly in need. Programs like SNAP should be administered in a way that supports dignity, reduces fraud, and encourages pathways toward self-sufficiency, including workforce participation where appropriate.

Fifth, we can improve access to healthy food in both rural and urban areas by encouraging private-sector investment in grocery stores, food distribution networks, and small business development in underserved areas, rather than relying solely on government-run solutions.”

Water Stewardship

Water is essential to Kansas agriculture and community well-being. KFAN promotes policies that conserve water, protect water quality, and ensure long-term sustainability for our farms, ecosystems, and communities.

What policies or investments would you/have you support(ed) to help Kansas farmers, ranchers, and local communities adapt to drought, declining aquifers, and other water-related challenges?

“First, we need to invest in innovation and technology that help producers use water more efficiently. That includes incentives for precision agriculture, improved irrigation systems, soil health practices, and drought-resistant crop development. These tools allow farmers to maintain productivity while reducing water usage and protecting aquifers.

Second, long-term water security requires a strong rural economy. Supporting agriculture, reducing regulatory burdens, and encouraging generational farming all contribute to better land stewardship. When family farms and ranches remain economically viable, they are far more likely to invest in conservation and sustainable practices.

Finally, we should invest in water infrastructure improvements where necessary, including storage, delivery systems, and monitoring technology, to ensure communities have reliable access while minimizing waste. Data collection and transparency around aquifer levels are also critical so producers can make informed decisions for the future.”

Bonus Question

How will you/Have you ensure(d) that the voices of farmers, food producers, and community members are included in decisions about agriculture, food access, and water resources?

“By having conversations with them directly to understand their needs in their areas. I have already done some of this in my travels across the state and will continue to do so. “

As of the publication deadline, this candidate did not respond to the Kansas Food Action Network's questionnaire.

As of the publication deadline, this candidate did not respond to the Kansas Food Action Network's questionnaire.

As of the publication deadline, this candidate did not respond to the Kansas Food Action Network's questionnaire.