There is currently no general election slate for the Kansas House 76th District race, but there is one for the primary.
Both Eric Smith of Burlington and Brad Barrett of Osage City submitted their election paperwork on the same day, as confirmed by Barrett. Interestingly, both candidates have a background in law enforcement. Smith currently serves as Coffey County’s undersheriff, while Barrett is currently a special investigator for the Shawnee County District Attorney after previously working as a deputy in Coffey County. In addition to their law enforcement experience, Barrett emphasizes the importance of agriculture and conservative policies in his campaign.
Smith, on the other hand, actively participates in multiple House committees that focus on law enforcement matters. These include the Judiciary committee, the special Kansas Emergency Management Act committee, and the Joint House-Senate Committee on Corrections and Juvenile and Justice Oversight. In addition to addressing essential areas such as budget and education funding, Smith has dedicated attention to crucial policy concerns like cybersecurity and the fentanyl crisis during the upcoming 2025 session.
The primary election will take place on August 6, while the general election is scheduled for November 5. It is important to note that the deadline for candidate filing and withdrawal is set for noon on June 3.
