By CRISTINA JANNEY
Hays Post
Republican Ken Rahjes of Agra said he was eager to head back to Topeka to continue his work on important issues to his district.
He defeated Democratic rival Kim Thomas, the mayor of Stockton, 6,287 to 1,994 votes Tuesday night for the 110th Kansas House seat. That district represents parts of Trego, Graham, Rooks, Ness, Rush and Ellis counties, including Victoria, Ellis, Plainville and WaKeeney.
“I think many of the things that we have been working on will remain with me,” he said. “We will have a comprehensive transportation plan that will continue to get worked on and solved. We focused a lot on agriculture and some water and natural resources issues.
“Also education is going to be one of the key things we will be looking at. Defending small schools will be something that will not waver regardless of who is in Cedar Crest.”
Rahjes said he hopes a new tone is struck in the House, and he looked forward to meeting new members. He said he was excited to be working with fellow Republican Barb Wasinger. Wasinger ended Tuesday night with a 40-vote lead over incumbent Democrat Eber Phelps, but provisional and mail-in ballots have yet to be counted.
Governor-elect Laura Kelly in her speech after her win Tuesday night said she hopes to finally pass Medicaid reform in Kansas.
Rahjes said he still opposes Medicaid expansion, and it is by no means a sure thing, just because Kansas will soon have a Democratic governor.
“I think if you really take a look, is that really the answer to save our rural hospitals?” he said. “I am still not convinced.”
He continued, “I think we are still trying to find a solution for the people who are uninsured, but I think the people in the 110th District don’t want the government to tell them what to do or what they can or cannot have.”
Rahjes said he was concerned the cost for providing Medicaid could increase if the federal government decides to no longer support Medicaid expansion at 90 percent.
“I don’t think the result of one or two elections indicates the people of Kansas are ready for a massive tax increase,” he said.
Kelly in her campaign said she supported a reduction on sales tax on food. Rahjes said he was unsure of what Kelly’s exact plan might be, but he also supports such a reduction.
Rahjes said he was pleased with the voter turnout and was encouraged to see an engaged electorate.
“It is great when people take time to participate in their government,” he said. “I am excited for the future. I am glad the election season is over, and we can plan and get to work for the districts and the people of Kansas.”