In Kansas, both Republicans and Democrats are gearing up for presidential primaries this Tuesday, even though the outcome seems pretty clear. Last week, former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden clinched their party’s nominations. With all the major competitors dropping out, the primaries might seem like an unnecessary expense. Taxpayers are expected to foot a bill of up to $5 million for these primaries. But was it worth it?
Kansas has usually favored party-run caucuses over presidential primaries, except for twice before in 1992 and 1980. However, the Republican-led Legislature decided a year ago to go for a primary for the 2024 election cycle. Supporters argued that primaries are more democratic, allowing more people to participate easily. Instead of the complex caucus process, voters simply show up at their polling site and cast a ballot like any other election. But opponents argued that taxpayers shouldn’t cover what political parties used to manage themselves. They questioned the estimated $4-5 million cost, suggesting that money could be better used elsewhere.
Fast forward to today, some opponents feel validated. Representative Jerry Stogsdill, a Prairie Village Democrat, believes that taxpayer money is being spent on primaries that hold little meaning now that the nominees are clear.
Trump and Biden clinched their nominations last week. Biden faced minimal opposition due to his incumbent status, while Trump faced challenges from fellow Republicans like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. However, Trump consistently secured victories in primary contests, leading to his competitors dropping out.
Despite the inevitable outcomes, supporters of the primary system stand by their decision. They argue that even with known winners, the primaries offer insights into support for alternative and write-in candidates. Additionally, they provide a gauge of voter enthusiasm, although this might not be very accurate so far from the November elections.
Kansas election officials have mixed feelings about the primaries. While they acknowledge the trust party leaders have shown in the state’s election system, they also recognize the time and effort required to organize the primaries, which could have been spent preparing for other elections.
The decision to hold primaries wasn’t straightforward. In April 2023, the House initially rejected the bill authorizing primaries before reconsidering and passing it the next day. Some Republicans were concerned about the ability of the Kansas Republican Party Chair to organize a successful caucus, especially given a divisive leadership contest. There were also expectations of a more challenging path for Trump’s nomination, prompting the move towards primaries.
The Legislature approved holding presidential primaries only for 2024, leaving future decisions up in the air. Some staunch supporters of primaries are already indicating their desire to continue them in 2028. Senator Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who led the effort to authorize primaries, believes that while the 2024 race may seem unique, it doesn’t discredit the importance of primaries in the future.
Moving forward, the decision about future primaries rests with Democratic Governor Laura Kelly. While she signed the bill last year authorizing primaries in 2024, she has expressed her fondness for caucuses. Nonetheless, she respects the Legislature’s decision and acknowledges her responsibility in the process, even if the outcomes seem predetermined.
