Hailey
Kansas Senate: Kansas politics is heading toward an important moment. In 2026, voters will choose who represents the state in the U.S. Senate, and this race could shape Kansas’ future for years.
Kansas Senate: While Kansas has been strongly Republican for decades, several Democratic challengers are now stepping forward to try and change that long-standing trend.
Kansas Senate: For the first time in many years, the Senate race is drawing attention not just inside Kansas, but across the country. Many voters are closely watching whether dissatisfaction with national leadership could open the door for change in this traditionally red state.
Below is a clear and simple guide to all major candidates running for Kansas U.S. Senate in 2026, their backgrounds, and what they stand for.
A Long Republican History in Kansas Senate Seats
Kansas Senate: Kansas has not elected a Democratic U.S. senator since 1939. That means Republicans have controlled both Senate seats for more than 85 years. This long streak makes the 2026 election especially interesting.
Currently, Sen. Roger Marshall holds one of Kansas’ Senate seats. He is seeking another term, but multiple Democratic candidates believe the political climate could give them a chance.
Key Election Dates Kansas Voters Should Know
- Primary Election: August 4, 2026
- General Election: November 3, 2026
On the same day, voters will also choose:
- Kansas Governor
- Attorney General
- Secretary of State
- State Treasurer
- Insurance Commissioner
Republican Candidate for Kansas U.S. Senate
Roger Marshall (Republican – Incumbent)
Political Experience
- U.S. Senator since 2021
- Former U.S. Representative for Kansas’ 1st District
Background
- Former OB-GYN doctor
- Served 7 years in the U.S. Army Reserve
Key Positions
- Strongly opposes expanded abortion access
- Spoke against COVID-19 mask mandates
- Objected to the 2020 election results, citing voter fraud claims
- Proposed a health care plan focused on Health Savings Accounts instead of long-term subsidies
Marshall remains the favorite, but challengers are hoping voter frustration could weaken his support.
Democratic Candidates Challenging for the Seat
Christy Davis (Democrat)
Experience
- Former Kansas Director of USDA Rural Development
- Board member of local business and cultural organizations
Main Focus Areas
- Says tariffs hurt Kansas farmers
- Supports immigration reform with a path to citizenship
- Focuses on strengthening rural communities
Anne Parelkar (Democrat)
Experience
- Immigration attorney
- No prior political office experience
Key Ideas
- Wants one simple national healthcare program for children
- Supports stronger consumer and antitrust laws
- Focus on protecting families and kids
Erik Murray (Democrat)
Experience
- Commercial real estate developer
- Leading a major redevelopment project in Kansas City, Kansas
Platform
- Focus on small business growth
- Supports Opportunity Zones to boost struggling communities
- Wants lower costs for entrepreneurs
Michael Soetaert (Democrat)
Experience
- Former Wellington City Council member
- Previously ran as a Republican before switching parties
Positions
- Changed stance on abortion rights after Kansas voters supported bodily autonomy
- Supports marriage equality laws
- Mix of moderate and progressive views
Sandy Spidel Neumann (Democrat)
Experience
- Retired financial services executive
- Long-time donor to Democratic causes
Key Policies
- Supports Medicaid expansion
- Wants to lower prescription drug prices
- Opposes cuts to veterans’ mental health services
- Strong supporter of women’s healthcare rights
Candidate Comparison
| Candidate Name | Party | Political Experience | Main Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roger Marshall | Republican | U.S. Senator, House Member | Health care reform, conservative values |
| Christy Davis | Democrat | USDA official | Farmers, immigration, rural growth |
| Anne Parelkar | Democrat | Immigration attorney | Children’s healthcare, consumer rights |
| Erik Murray | Democrat | Business leader | Small businesses, development |
| Michael Soetaert | Democrat | City council | Social issues, voter rights |
| Sandy Spidel Neumann | Democrat | Financial executive | Healthcare, veterans, drug pricing |
What This Race Means for Kansas
Kansas Senate: Even though Republicans are still favored to win, the large number of Democratic challengers shows growing interest in changing Kansas politics. The outcome will depend on voter turnout, national issues, and how well candidates connect with everyday Kansans.
Kansas Senate: The 2026 Kansas U.S. Senate race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched elections in the state’s recent history. With a long Republican legacy on the line, multiple Democratic candidates are offering fresh ideas and different backgrounds.
Kansas Senate: While history favors the incumbent, voter mood and national politics could influence the final result. Kansas voters will ultimately decide whether to continue tradition or move in a new direction.