In Kansas, Republicans looked to retain control of the open U.S. House seat in the 2nd Congressional District as former Attorney General Derek Schmidt took on Democrat Nancy Boyda. Schmidt, who lost a tight gubernatorial race in 2022, has experience as attorney general and has received support from former President Trump. Boyda, the last Democrat to hold this seat, is attempting a political comeback.
In the 3rd District, Democrat Sharice Davids, known for her history-making election in 2018 as a Native American, openly lesbian former MMA fighter, aimed to defend her seat against Republican Prasanth Reddy. Davids’ focus on abortion rights and her centrist approach have resonated with voters in the suburban Johnson County area.
Kansas’ two other districts are expected to remain Republican strongholds. In the 1st District, GOP Rep. Tracey Mann faced University of Kansas academic counselor Paul Buskirk. Mann’s conservative base extends across rural areas, despite the liberal influence of Lawrence. In the 4th District, Republican Rep. Ron Estes ran against Esau Freeman, a union leader and marijuana legalization advocate.
While Kansas’ traditionally conservative lean has kept many districts reliably Republican, the 3rd District in particular has shown signs of shifting demographics, making it a focal point for both parties.