Kansas Legislative Leaders Meet With Governor-Elect Sam Brownback

Kansas Democratic and Republican legislative leaders met with Governor-Elect Sam Brownback (R) Tuesday to have an open dialogue.  Senate President Steve Morris (R) and Senate Democratic leader Anthony Hensley (D) were at the meeting along with House Speaker Mike O’Neal (R) and House Democratic Leader Paul Davis (D).

Brownback said he hoped it would be one of many meeting as his office as they needed to work together to solve unemployed and “balance a state budget with a deficit approaching $500 million.”

Morris said the meeting was cordial and Brownback indicated to he would have an “open door policy” to all four leaders. While no specific legislative issues were discussed, Morris said Brownback seemed to want a good working relationship as they looked forward to the legislative session in January.

Brownback Makes Additional Appointments to Transition Team

Brownback also made two additional appointments to his Gubenatorial transition team Wednesday.  In addition to — members announced last week, Brownback appointed former House Speaker Tim Shallenburger as Transition Legislative Liaison and former staffer for Congressman Todd Tiahrt (R), Mark Dugan as Lt. Governor-Elect Jeff Colyer’s Chief of Staff Designee.

Shallenburger served in the Kansas Legislature from 1986 to 1998 before being elected State Treasurer in 1999 said, he was excited to work for Brownback and looked forward to working with Kansas legislators – many who he served with while in office during the transition.

Dugan who previously worked for Congressman Tiahrt as senior legislative correspondent and political director said it was an honor to serve and he “looks forward to working with Dr. Colyer and Gov.-Elect Brownback to implement the Road Map for Kansas that will get our state moving in the right direction,” said Dugan.

Parkinson Remembers Veterans Day

Thursday November 11 marks the 56th Anniversary of Veteran’s Day. Governor Parkinson (D) has encouraged all Kansans to display the American flag saying, “This day remembers those that have given immeasurable sacrifice for our freedom. This day was founded right here in Kansas.”

Parkinson noted that it was a man from Emporia, Alvin King, whose step son was killed in World War II, who worked with Kansas Congressman Edward Rees to create a day to honor Veterans. On June 1, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the law that made Veteran’s Day official.

“Alvin King embodies a value for our veterans that all Kansans share – unwavering appreciation,” said Parkinson. “While there is nothing that can ever repay our veterans for their service, we must do all that we can to show our gratitude.”