HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Tuesday, Dr. Mark Steffen announced that the current chair of the Senate Education Committee, Senator Molly Baumgardner, has endorsed his campaign.
This is a significant development in Steffen's campaign for the Republican nomination for the State Senate as precedent normally prevents GOP colleagues from endorsing a challenger to an incumbent.
“I’ve had the honor to serve as chair of the Senate Education Committee for the past four years. The committee has worked diligently to pass common sense bills that have a positive impact on learning opportunities for pre-K through college and career training. I ask that you help the Kansas Senate by electing the Republican Candidate that will help us continue to put Kansas families first. Support the Republican Candidate with a proven commitment to learning opportunities at all grade levels. Please join me in supporting Kansas GOP Senate candidate Dr. Mark Steffen,” stated Senator Molly Baumgardner, Senate Education Committee Chair.
“I am deeply honored by Senator Baumgardner’s endorsement and I look forward to working alongside her to improve our Kansas schools. Deanna and I are proud of the education both of our children received in Kansas public schools – it prepared them for the future and put them on a path toward success. However, we can always do better and I am excited to help advance policies which return more local control to schools, increase academic excellence and prepare out students for the 21st century,” stated Dr. Mark Steffen
Steffen, a local physician, small business owner, oilman and farmer is running for the Republican nomination in Kansas Senate District 34. The Republican contest in Senate District 34 will take place on Tuesday, August 4th.