As Kansas Gov. Kelly Takes Office, Democrats Breathe 'Sigh of Relief,' Republicans Wait And See

By Steve Kraske,

Published January 14, 2019 at 5:03 PM CST

Newly sworn-in Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly gave an inaugural address calling on Kansas to leave behind partisanship and return to a sense of cooperation.

In a live broadcast from the south steps of the Capitol, Steve Kraske and Jim McLean hosted discussions about the political priorities of Kansas' 48th governor as she took her oath of office. State lawmakers and political watchers opined on her chances for turning her Democratic Party platform into law, and how hard a fight the Republican legislature will put up when it comes to Medicaid expansion, school funding and more. Then, Gov. Laura Kelly gave her inaugural address.

Burdett Loomis, University of Kansas political science professor
Rep. Eileen Horn, D-Lawrence
Rep. Russ Jennings, R-Lakin
Bob Beatty, Washburn University professor and chair of political science

Tags

Steve Kraske

When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.

See stories by Steve Kraske

Jim McLean

Jim McLean is a political correspondent for the Kansas News Service, a collaboration based at KCUR with other public media stations across Kansas. You can email him at jim@kcur.org.

See stories by Jim McLean

Luke X. Martin

As culture editor, I help you embrace what makes Kansas City fun and vibrant, whether it’s a championship sports franchise or a little-known wonder. I work with reporters to ensure KCUR stories on art, culture, and race fully reflect our diverse home so readers and listeners can take full advantage of what the metro has to offer. Email me at luke@kcur.org.

See stories by Luke X. Martin