Three statewide elections and their implications were discussed Nov 28 at the Dole Institute's 2018 Kansas Elections Conference.

Panelists included campaign managers for Governorelect Laura Kelly, U.S. Representative-elect Steve Watkins, Paul Davis, U.S. Representative-elect Sharice Davids, Kevin Yoder and the former manager for Kris Kobach. Commentators also included John Hanna of the Associated Press, Caroline Sweeney of KCTV5, Hunter Woodall of the Kansas City Star, and Patrick Miller of the KU political science faculty.

Some take-aways on the campaigns: On the governor's race, Kobach's national political activity may have undercut his appeal to moderate and independent voters, while Kelly's focus on education in addition to vocal support from her Republican supporters were winning strengths.

In the 25 counties of the 2nd congressional district, Watkins's appeal to traditional Republicans and party leaders helped him in a close win over the strong campaign of Paul Davis.

n the 3rd congressional district, voters appreciated Davids's history of being raised by a single mom, educational journey from Johnson County Community College to Cornell Law School, service to Native American communities, her excellent use of television, and her focus on education. Yoder's national connections didn't work well for the incumbent. His loss mirrored President Trump's approval ratings: 43 percent approved Trump, Yoder's tally against Davids was 44 percent.