Former Kansas Governor Mike Hayden Backs Democrat Adam Hamilton in Senate Race

Former Republican governor Mike Hayden, who led Kansas from 1987 to 1991, issued an op-ed endorsing Democratic Senate nominee Adam Hamilton over incumbent Sen. Roger Marshall. Hayden’s endorsement follows a similar move by former Gov. Bill Graves, making them the second and third former GOP governors to support Hamilton in a race that has historically been held by Republicans for nearly a century.

The HillAlternet

The Kansas Senate seat has not been held by a Democrat since the early 20th century. Decision Desk HQ projects that Marshall is likely to retain the seat, while an Emerson College poll conducted in September showed Hamilton leading within the margin of error, indicating a potentially competitive contest in the deep-red state. The race is slated for the November midterm elections.

The Hill

Hamilton emphasized that Hayden’s willingness to set aside party considerations aligns with his own goal of delivering for working families.

The Hill

• “I ran for office for the first time when I was only 28 years old because I felt the person representing my community in the legislature was failing to fight for the needs of our state,” — Kansas Gov. Mike Hayden

The Hill

• “He knows how to put party and politics aside to deliver for working families, and I am so honored to have him by my side as I strive to do the same,” — Democrat Adam Hamilton

The Hill

• “Today, I am endorsing Adam Hamilton for the U.S. Senate for the same reasons. I am a proud lifelong Republican. My conservative values guided me throughout my time as governor and the years since. I fought for property tax reform, stood up for agricultural producers, and put our state on stronger financial footing. Governing should always center around the best interests of the people.” — Kansas Gov. Mike Hayden

Alternet

• “Sen. Marshall time and again has chosen to back the tariffs and the war, despite what is happening back in Kansas,” — Kansas Gov. Mike Hayden

Alternet