TOPEKA (KSNT) — Following Gov. Laura Kelly’s State of the State address on Tuesday, Republicans say they have “high hopes” for the legislative session, but are urging Kelly to support her “middle ground” approach.
Kansas Senate Speaker Ty Masterson responded on behalf of the Kansas GOP in a video recorded before State of the State on Jan. 11.
Part of the response highlighted the plan outlined by the Kansas GOP in its “A Better Way” legislative agenda.
Masterson says there are several issues affecting Kansas and they hope Governor Kelly abandons what he calls the radical approach of Kansas Democrats and works with the Republican party on issues including tax issues and school choice.
The GOP says it also hopes to remain fiscally responsible and resist the urge to overspend government funds, as well as institute restrictions on abortion and transgender athletes.
In the response, Masterson acknowledged Kelly’s campaign promises, but noted that Kelly’s accomplishments were the result of Republican cooperation.
“The governor has said repeatedly that he has worked from the center and has had many victories,” Masterson said. “Obviously the divided nature of our government means that any bill that reaches his desk only does so with Republican effort, meaning complete victories, it all started with the Republicans. Regardless of trying to take credit, I’m optimistic we will find common ground.”
Masterson said the Kansas Republican Party is also “committed to putting the people of Kansas first, and the party expects to drive results, not rhetoric, in this legislative session.”
