The Kansas Governor’s Race: Who Will Lead Conservatives Forward? - POLL
The 2026 Kansas governor’s race is already shaping up to be one of the most important primaries in our state’s recent history. Tell me who you support - POLL
The 2026 Kansas governor’s race is already shaping up to be one of the most important primaries in our state’s recent history. The Republican field is coming into focus, and conservatives across Kansas must begin asking: Who should be our standard-bearer?
The Field of Candidates
Here’s a breakdown of the Republicans currently positioning themselves for the governor’s race:
Jeff Colyer – Former Kansas Governor (2018–2019) and Lieutenant Governor. Colyer brings executive experience, statewide name recognition, and a background as a physician that uniquely informs his approach to healthcare and leadership.
Ty Masterson – Current President of the Kansas Senate, known for his strong conservative record on fiscal issues, education reform, and defending constitutional liberties.
Doug Billings – Political commentator with a national following, making his case as an outsider voice with grassroots appeal. His campaign has been tumultuous out of the gate, and questions linger about integrity from his original running mate.
Joy Eakins – Former school board member from Wichita, with a record of community-level leadership and a focus on education policy.
Charlotte O’Hara – Former Johnson County Commissioner who has been outspoken on local government and property rights.
Stacy Rogers – Small business owner from Wichita, representing an entrepreneurial perspective on Kansas’s economy and regulation.
Vicki Schmidt – Current Kansas State Insurance Commissioner, well known for her work in regulating the insurance industry and her experience in statewide office.
Scott Schwab – Current Kansas Secretary of State, experienced in elections and administrative leadership at the state level.
Why Masterson and Colyer Stand Out
In my view, two frontrunners stand out: Senate President Ty Masterson and former Governor Jeff Colyer. Both have strong conservative credentials and a proven ability to represent the values of Kansas families. While every candidate brings their own story and strengths, I see Masterson and Colyer as the two strongest conservative options. Both are tested leaders, committed to our values, and capable of winning statewide.
Ty Masterson offers legislative leadership and a consistent conservative record. He began his tenure in the Kansas Senate as a maverick, often challenging the establishment and helping organize conservatives in the legislature. His critics in the grassroots, however, have noted concerns that as Senate President he has leaned too heavily on advisors and aligned himself more closely with establishment forces.
Jeff Colyer brings executive experience and a proven ability to govern. While he served as governor, he was never elected to the role outright, losing in a primary after finishing out Governor Brownback’s term when Brownback became an ambassador under the first Trump administration. Colyer has championed property rights and played a significant role in fighting against lockdown orders during COVID.
Others may gain traction, but the danger remains that if conservatives split too thinly, a moderate or less effective leader could emerge from the primary. This is not to say some of the other candidates are not conservatives, they are just not yet statewide known, and I plan to highlight each of them at a later time. The purpose of this is to see where people are in their thoughts on the race as it sits currently.
Why This Race Matters
Through my own work in grassroots politics—whether with the Convention of States, organizing rallies, or leading Open Up Kansas to push back against harmful COVID lockdowns—I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to have real conservatives in office. Kansans need leaders who will stand firm, not bend to pressure from Topeka insiders.
We already know the media will paint Republicans as “too conservative” or even “radical.” We saw how effectively they tarnished Governor Brownback’s record, often without much counter to the narrative statewide. Whoever emerges from this primary must be ready to fight in the war of ideas and clearly articulate why their vision is best for Kansas.
Your Voice Matters
I don’t have all the answers, and I want this blog to be the start of a dialogue. That’s why I’ve created a poll to hear from you directly to help me understand your thoughts:
Final Thought
This race isn’t just about picking a candidate—it’s about choosing the direction of Kansas for the next generation. We need leaders who will put Kansas first, defend our freedoms, and ensure that conservative principles are more than just words on a campaign flyer. We need bold principled leadership that has enough appeal to ensure a victory in November 2026.
Now it’s your turn: Cast your vote in the poll, and let’s start this conversation together.
Dave Schneider
Looking to hear from you on this. Do you support someone not listed in the poll? Tell everyone why!