Kansans praise Rep. Davids’ leadership and call redistricting efforts “a political ploy” and “ridiculous”

A new State Affairs article highlights growing backlash from Johnson County residents over a proposed redistricting plan that would split Kansas’ Third Congressional District — a move “no one voiced unqualified support for.”

The story also makes clear that Representative Sharice Davids continues to receive strong support from Kansans in Johnson County. Residents praised her for being accessible, working across the aisle, and staying focused on the issues that actually matter — like lowering costs, supporting small businesses, and representing everyone in her district, regardless of party.

State Republican politicians are circulating a petition to call a special session beginning November 7 to gerrymander Kansas’ maps by splitting up Johnson County, a move they promised not to do. Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson announced recently that the Kansas Senate has reached the two-thirds threshold for a special session. While the Kansas House has not yet met that requirement, the state legislature approved $460,000 in taxpayer funds for this special session.


Below are key quotes from the story, which can also be found here:

• “Splitting up Johnson County would be a misrepresentation of the community,” said Overland Park resident Vincent Nowak, who praised Davids for doing “a really good job” and “reaching out to all of her constituents, both Democrats and Republicans.”

• “It’s a political ploy to try and keep the people who have backed Trump in power,” said Leawood resident Glen Cox, adding that Davids has represented the county well on the national stage and that political meddling like this “is not good for our democracy.”

• “She actually listens to the people she represents,” said Olathe resident Debi Morey. “She’s out and about doing things, listening — and I don’t see that by a lot of the other folks around.”

• “Republican lawmakers need to keep their hands off the map completely … no manipulating nothing,” said Leawood business owner Trish Goodfriend, who called Davids “a wonderful representative” and a consistent supporter of small businesses.

• “I think she’s helped Overland Park,” said business owner Steve Robson, who urged both parties to work together for Kansans rather than play political games.