Kansas Common Sense
Hosting Law Enforcement Roundtable in Garden City
This week, I hosted officials from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI, ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), Department of Homeland Security for a roundtable discussion in Garden City with southwest Kansas law enforcement, Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Kansas Highway Patrol members to learn more about the local work being done to reduce drug trafficking and organized crime. For years, the crisis at our southern border allowed drug traffickers and dangerous criminals to enter our country, straining the resources of rural law enforcement and endangering rural communities.
During the event, the DEA representative also announced the agency’s commitment to increase the number of agents at its Garden City Post of Duty. I appreciated hearing from local, state and federal law enforcement, and I remain committed to helping provide our men and women in blue with the tools they need to keep Kansas safe. Thank you to everyone who participated and for their work to keep Kansans safe.
You can read more about the roundtable in the Great Bend Tribune here.
Celebrating Progress at Wichita Biomedical Campus
On Tuesday morning, I participated in a ceremony marking an important milestone as construction crews placed the final beam atop the new Wichita Biomedical Campus. Located in the heart of the city, this collaborative effort between Wichita State University, WSU Tech and the University of Kansas will provide world class healthcare training to thousands of students, while advancing research, discovery and cutting-edge innovation. When the campus opens in 2027, it will serve as an important workforce pipeline while encouraging students to help meet the healthcare needs of communities across Kansas.
I am eager to continue to showcase Wichita’s strengths by bringing company executives and federal officials to see what will be a state-of-the-art facility. Thank you to WSU President Rick Muma and KU Chancellor Doug Girod for their leadership in moving this innovative partnership forward. Special thanks to Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson for the critical role he played in helping secure financial support from the Kansas Legislature. Thank you also to Greater Wichita Partnership President Jeff Fluhr and his team for their work to further invigorate downtown Wichita.
You can learn more about the Wichita Biomedical Campus from KSNW here.
Celebrating Grand Opening of Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center
This week, I joined the Hays community to celebrate the grand opening of the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. One cannot tell the story of Hays without mentioning Bob and Pat Schmidt, and their contributions and dedication to the Hays community cannot be overstated. The community center is a 14,300 square foot facility designed to serve as a multigenerational hub for the Hays community. The state-of-the-art center is also home to Bright Minds Academy's third childcare location and the Hays Senior Center, providing essential services and fostering a sense of community for residents of all ages.
This facility will help to support Bob and Pat’s mission of bringing together the community they loved while honoring their legacy. I dedicated a flag to be flown over the United States Capitol in honor of the community center groundbreaking, and that same flag was flown at the ceremony to mark the beginning of the center’s impact on generations to come. I want to extend my thanks to Doug William, James Robben and the entire Grow Hays team. Without their dedicated efforts, the grand opening of the community center would not be possible. Thank you as well to Board Chairman of the Schmidt Foundation, Gary Shorman, and the members of the Ellis County and Hays City Commissions and countless community members for their commitment to making this project a reality.
You can learn more about the community center grand opening from the Hays Post here.
Grand Opening of Dodge City Regional Airport Terminal Building
On Thursday, I was in Dodge City to cut the ribbon on recent improvements at the Dodge City Regional Airport. Dodge City’s investments in its airport will help to increase commerce and connectivity across southwest Kansas. The improvements will increase the security of the traveling public, create increased space for passengers waiting to depart and allow for new opportunities for growth. I supported Dodge City’s effort to leverage federal funds to bolster the good work they are doing. Additionally, with daily flights to Denver, the airport provides reliable flights into and out of Dodge City. This reliable jet service is made possible in Dodge City through the Essential Air Service. As Chairman of the Senate Commerce Aviation Subcommittee, I have been an advocate of this program to make certain that Kansans are connected to the world with reliable and safe air service. You can learn more about the Regional Airport grand opening from the Dodge City Globe here.
Thank you to Mayor Chuck Taylor, City Manager Nick Hernandez, Public Works Director Corey Keller, Airport Direct Eliel Marin and all who came to celebrate this milestone.
Celebrating New Dodge City Community College Automotive Technology Center
While in Dodge City, I also participated in the ribbon cutting for Dodge City Community College’s new Automotive Technology Center. This valuable resource will help enable Dodge City Community College to continue to serve southwest Kansas students and provide valuable career opportunities for generations to come. Thank you to the leadership of President Harold Nolte, Board Chairman Gary Harshberger, Vice President of Workforce Development Dr. Clayton Tatro and especially the dedicated leadership, service and vision of Jeff Cole, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Touring Flora Food Group’s Hugoton Facility
This week, I visited Flora Food Group’s newly acquired facility in Hugoton. Flora Food Group is a global plant-based food company that includes products such as “I Can’t Believe It's Not Butter” and “Country Crock.” Flora announced its acquisition of the former Kansas Dairy Ingredients facility last September. Since that time, they have been busy retrofitting and expanding product lines to provide quality product to markets across the U.S. and Canada. Once fully operational, the facility in Hugoton will serve as their hub for creams, cream cheeses and ultra fine milk products and will provide more than 125 jobs in the region.
I enjoyed visiting with Flora representatives about their products and their future plans in Hugoton. I also met with Stevens County Economic Development Director Jan Leonard and Global Technical Director Fabrice Stock about the work they and the county are doing to encourage growth in housing and other essential services to support the facility and improve the quality of life in Liberal.
Speaking at Sublette Rotary Club
I joined the Sublette Rotary Club to provide an update on my work in our nation’s capital and hear from those in attendance about happenings in Haskell County. During the meeting, I presented County Treasurer Nancy Weeks with a flag that flew over the United States Capitol. Nancy has been the Treasurer in Haskell County since 1975. In that time, she has been a tremendous advocate for her constituents and has served Haskell County, and our state, exceptionally well. I thank Nancy for her 50 years in public service and wish her well in her retirement.
Thank you to Club President Nick Leon, Sterling Hall, Sheriff Troy Briggs and Treasurer Nancy Weeks. I also appreciate Janie Welsh for extending the opportunity to be her guest.
Touring Kansas Hospitals
Pratt Regional Medical Center
On Tuesday, I traveled to Pratt for a tour of the Pratt Regional Medical Center. While there, I heard from staff about the various services and programs provided to make certain the community has access to quality, affordable health care services. I want to extend my thanks to lab technician JoAnn Tolosa, originally from the Philippines who recently became an American citizen. Thank you to JoAnn and the rest of the Medical Center staff for welcoming me and showing me around.
Southwest Medical Center
Later on Tuesday, I joined Southwest Medical Center leadership for a conversation about healthcare in Seward County and the region. I appreciated learning more about the success of their annual community health fair. This event, open to all in southwest Kansas, is a community-led effort that has greatly improved the health and well-being of thousands of Kansans through low-cost health screenings. This year, Southwest Medical Center will host the 16th annual health fair on Saturday, October 4 from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Seward County Activity Center.
Thank you to CEO Amber Williams, Director of Marketing Janeth Vazquez, and Trustees Dennis Sander, Ivanhoe Love, Jr., Tony McKee and all of the dedicated staff that shared their good work with me.
You can read more about my visit to SWMC from Liberal First here.
Kingman Healthcare Center
I enjoyed visiting Kingman Healthcare Center this week as part of my tour of hospitals across Kansas. With two locations in Kingman and one in Cunningham, KHC provides a vast array of healthcare services for Kansans in Kingman County. Thank you to CEO Preston Sauers and the entire staff for hosting me.
Meade District Hospital
I also visited Meade District Hospital this week where I met with CEO Dawn Unruh and her team to hear about the progress and challenges facing their facility. They shared how they are working to hire medical professionals and work collaboratively with Southwest Medical Center in order to provide care for patients in the area. We also discussed their efforts to attract local talent and how Fort Hays State University is working to expand its nurse practitioner program in order to help meet demand. I appreciate the informative meeting and tour from the entire team at Meade District Hospital.
Hamilton County Hospital
I joined Hamilton County Hospital CEO Dr. Richard Carter and Hospital Administrator Kelly Hatcher this week to visit about the work being done at their facility to improve healthcare access in Syracuse and my efforts to secure federal resources for rural health care facilities. Thank you to Dr. Carter, Mr. Hatcher and all the Hamilton County Hospital staff for their commitment to providing quality health care to their community.
CommonSpirit-Saint Catherine Hospital
On Wednesday, I visited CommonSpirit-Saint Catherine Hospital in Garden City for a tour of the facility. I met with hospital CEO Twilla Lee and Human Resources Director Samy Ramos as well as Garden City Mayor Roy Cessna, City Manager Matt Allen, Finney County Economic Development Director Lona DuVall, State Representative Lon Pishny and State Senator Bill Clifford to learn more about the care provided to Kansans at CommonSpirits locations in Garden City, Dodge City and Ulysses. Thank you to all those who joined me on the tour and for the informative discussions.
Touring Kansas Schools
Seward County Community College
This week, I visited Seward County Community College to learn about the learning opportunities it offers to students. I also toured the newly opened health center on campus, which provides care and mental health resources for students. I appreciate SCCC’s dedication to not only teaching students but also caring for their health and well-being. Thank you to SCCC President Brad Bennett and staff for hosting me.
Stanton County High School
On Wednesday, I visited Stanton County High School in Johnson City. A group of student leaders gave me a tour of the school, and I appreciated hearing about what they are learning this school year. Thank you to these students, faculty and staff for hosting me.
Cimarron High School
I traveled to Cimarron on Thursday for a tour of Cimarron High School. During my visit, I met with students, faculty and staff to learn more about the various technical programs provided by CHS to help bolster student success. Thank you to the students who provided me with a tour, and thank you to Principal Alicia Forsyth and the entire CHS faculty and staff for their continued commitment to making certain Kansas students have bright futures.
Remembering KCKPD Officer Hunter Simoncic
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of KCKPD Officer Hunter Simoncic in the line of duty after he was hit by an armed suspect fleeing in a car. At the age of only 26, Officer Simoncic made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his community. The loss of this young man marks a tragic day for Kansas.
My prayers are with the loved ones of Officer Simoncic and the entire KCKPD during this difficult time. You can read more about Officer Simoncic’s life from KCTV here.
Attending FHSU Football Home Opener
On Thursday, I enjoyed watching the Fort Hays State University Tigers take on Angelo State University during their home opener at Lewis Field Stadium. I appreciated visiting with students, administrators, alumni and community supporters in attendance. Thank you to the FHSU community for welcoming me, and best of luck with the rest of your season!
Celebrating Labor Day
Labor Day is a time to recognize the American workforce, from nurses and doctors to builders and welders to teachers and fire fighters and so many more. Kansas is home to multiple thriving industries, including aviation, agriculture, healthcare and manufacturing.
Thank you to the hardworking Kansans who make our state a great place to work, live and raise a family!
Now Accepting 2025 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2030. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Monday, September 8, 2025. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.
Kansans in the Office
Capitol Tour
Brooke Braun of Manhattan
Michael Caraway of Goddard
Geri Caraway of Goddard
Cole Caraway of Goddard
Dalton Caraway of Goddard
Joshua Cogan of Olathe
Micah Cogan of Olathe
Jonathan Cogan of Olathe
Bellamy Cogan of Olathe
Skylar Cogan of Olathe
Kaile Crawford of Shawnee
Steven Meier of Minneapolis
Pamela Meier of Minneapolis
Robyn Setter of Lenexa
Courtney Setter of Overland Park
Jerry Speer of Olathe
Lily Speer of Olathe
This week, I hosted officials from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI, ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), Department of Homeland Security for a roundtable discussion in Garden City with southwest Kansas law enforcement, Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Kansas Highway Patrol members to learn more about the local work being done to reduce drug trafficking and organized crime. For years, the crisis at our southern border allowed drug traffickers and dangerous criminals to enter our country, straining the resources of rural law enforcement and endangering rural communities.
During the event, the DEA representative also announced the agency’s commitment to increase the number of agents at its Garden City Post of Duty. I appreciated hearing from local, state and federal law enforcement, and I remain committed to helping provide our men and women in blue with the tools they need to keep Kansas safe. Thank you to everyone who participated and for their work to keep Kansans safe.
You can read more about the roundtable in the Great Bend Tribune here.
Celebrating Progress at Wichita Biomedical Campus
On Tuesday morning, I participated in a ceremony marking an important milestone as construction crews placed the final beam atop the new Wichita Biomedical Campus. Located in the heart of the city, this collaborative effort between Wichita State University, WSU Tech and the University of Kansas will provide world class healthcare training to thousands of students, while advancing research, discovery and cutting-edge innovation. When the campus opens in 2027, it will serve as an important workforce pipeline while encouraging students to help meet the healthcare needs of communities across Kansas.
I am eager to continue to showcase Wichita’s strengths by bringing company executives and federal officials to see what will be a state-of-the-art facility. Thank you to WSU President Rick Muma and KU Chancellor Doug Girod for their leadership in moving this innovative partnership forward. Special thanks to Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson for the critical role he played in helping secure financial support from the Kansas Legislature. Thank you also to Greater Wichita Partnership President Jeff Fluhr and his team for their work to further invigorate downtown Wichita.
You can learn more about the Wichita Biomedical Campus from KSNW here.
Celebrating Grand Opening of Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center
This week, I joined the Hays community to celebrate the grand opening of the Bob and Pat Schmidt Community Center. One cannot tell the story of Hays without mentioning Bob and Pat Schmidt, and their contributions and dedication to the Hays community cannot be overstated. The community center is a 14,300 square foot facility designed to serve as a multigenerational hub for the Hays community. The state-of-the-art center is also home to Bright Minds Academy's third childcare location and the Hays Senior Center, providing essential services and fostering a sense of community for residents of all ages.
This facility will help to support Bob and Pat’s mission of bringing together the community they loved while honoring their legacy. I dedicated a flag to be flown over the United States Capitol in honor of the community center groundbreaking, and that same flag was flown at the ceremony to mark the beginning of the center’s impact on generations to come. I want to extend my thanks to Doug William, James Robben and the entire Grow Hays team. Without their dedicated efforts, the grand opening of the community center would not be possible. Thank you as well to Board Chairman of the Schmidt Foundation, Gary Shorman, and the members of the Ellis County and Hays City Commissions and countless community members for their commitment to making this project a reality.
You can learn more about the community center grand opening from the Hays Post here.
Grand Opening of Dodge City Regional Airport Terminal Building
On Thursday, I was in Dodge City to cut the ribbon on recent improvements at the Dodge City Regional Airport. Dodge City’s investments in its airport will help to increase commerce and connectivity across southwest Kansas. The improvements will increase the security of the traveling public, create increased space for passengers waiting to depart and allow for new opportunities for growth. I supported Dodge City’s effort to leverage federal funds to bolster the good work they are doing. Additionally, with daily flights to Denver, the airport provides reliable flights into and out of Dodge City. This reliable jet service is made possible in Dodge City through the Essential Air Service. As Chairman of the Senate Commerce Aviation Subcommittee, I have been an advocate of this program to make certain that Kansans are connected to the world with reliable and safe air service. You can learn more about the Regional Airport grand opening from the Dodge City Globe here.
Thank you to Mayor Chuck Taylor, City Manager Nick Hernandez, Public Works Director Corey Keller, Airport Direct Eliel Marin and all who came to celebrate this milestone.
Celebrating New Dodge City Community College Automotive Technology Center
While in Dodge City, I also participated in the ribbon cutting for Dodge City Community College’s new Automotive Technology Center. This valuable resource will help enable Dodge City Community College to continue to serve southwest Kansas students and provide valuable career opportunities for generations to come. Thank you to the leadership of President Harold Nolte, Board Chairman Gary Harshberger, Vice President of Workforce Development Dr. Clayton Tatro and especially the dedicated leadership, service and vision of Jeff Cole, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Touring Flora Food Group’s Hugoton Facility
This week, I visited Flora Food Group’s newly acquired facility in Hugoton. Flora Food Group is a global plant-based food company that includes products such as “I Can’t Believe It's Not Butter” and “Country Crock.” Flora announced its acquisition of the former Kansas Dairy Ingredients facility last September. Since that time, they have been busy retrofitting and expanding product lines to provide quality product to markets across the U.S. and Canada. Once fully operational, the facility in Hugoton will serve as their hub for creams, cream cheeses and ultra fine milk products and will provide more than 125 jobs in the region.
I enjoyed visiting with Flora representatives about their products and their future plans in Hugoton. I also met with Stevens County Economic Development Director Jan Leonard and Global Technical Director Fabrice Stock about the work they and the county are doing to encourage growth in housing and other essential services to support the facility and improve the quality of life in Liberal.
Speaking at Sublette Rotary Club
I joined the Sublette Rotary Club to provide an update on my work in our nation’s capital and hear from those in attendance about happenings in Haskell County. During the meeting, I presented County Treasurer Nancy Weeks with a flag that flew over the United States Capitol. Nancy has been the Treasurer in Haskell County since 1975. In that time, she has been a tremendous advocate for her constituents and has served Haskell County, and our state, exceptionally well. I thank Nancy for her 50 years in public service and wish her well in her retirement.
Thank you to Club President Nick Leon, Sterling Hall, Sheriff Troy Briggs and Treasurer Nancy Weeks. I also appreciate Janie Welsh for extending the opportunity to be her guest.
Touring Kansas Hospitals
Pratt Regional Medical Center
On Tuesday, I traveled to Pratt for a tour of the Pratt Regional Medical Center. While there, I heard from staff about the various services and programs provided to make certain the community has access to quality, affordable health care services. I want to extend my thanks to lab technician JoAnn Tolosa, originally from the Philippines who recently became an American citizen. Thank you to JoAnn and the rest of the Medical Center staff for welcoming me and showing me around.
Southwest Medical Center
Later on Tuesday, I joined Southwest Medical Center leadership for a conversation about healthcare in Seward County and the region. I appreciated learning more about the success of their annual community health fair. This event, open to all in southwest Kansas, is a community-led effort that has greatly improved the health and well-being of thousands of Kansans through low-cost health screenings. This year, Southwest Medical Center will host the 16th annual health fair on Saturday, October 4 from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Seward County Activity Center.
Thank you to CEO Amber Williams, Director of Marketing Janeth Vazquez, and Trustees Dennis Sander, Ivanhoe Love, Jr., Tony McKee and all of the dedicated staff that shared their good work with me.
You can read more about my visit to SWMC from Liberal First here.
Kingman Healthcare Center
I enjoyed visiting Kingman Healthcare Center this week as part of my tour of hospitals across Kansas. With two locations in Kingman and one in Cunningham, KHC provides a vast array of healthcare services for Kansans in Kingman County. Thank you to CEO Preston Sauers and the entire staff for hosting me.
Meade District Hospital
I also visited Meade District Hospital this week where I met with CEO Dawn Unruh and her team to hear about the progress and challenges facing their facility. They shared how they are working to hire medical professionals and work collaboratively with Southwest Medical Center in order to provide care for patients in the area. We also discussed their efforts to attract local talent and how Fort Hays State University is working to expand its nurse practitioner program in order to help meet demand. I appreciate the informative meeting and tour from the entire team at Meade District Hospital.
Hamilton County Hospital
I joined Hamilton County Hospital CEO Dr. Richard Carter and Hospital Administrator Kelly Hatcher this week to visit about the work being done at their facility to improve healthcare access in Syracuse and my efforts to secure federal resources for rural health care facilities. Thank you to Dr. Carter, Mr. Hatcher and all the Hamilton County Hospital staff for their commitment to providing quality health care to their community.
CommonSpirit-Saint Catherine Hospital
On Wednesday, I visited CommonSpirit-Saint Catherine Hospital in Garden City for a tour of the facility. I met with hospital CEO Twilla Lee and Human Resources Director Samy Ramos as well as Garden City Mayor Roy Cessna, City Manager Matt Allen, Finney County Economic Development Director Lona DuVall, State Representative Lon Pishny and State Senator Bill Clifford to learn more about the care provided to Kansans at CommonSpirits locations in Garden City, Dodge City and Ulysses. Thank you to all those who joined me on the tour and for the informative discussions.
Touring Kansas Schools
Seward County Community College
This week, I visited Seward County Community College to learn about the learning opportunities it offers to students. I also toured the newly opened health center on campus, which provides care and mental health resources for students. I appreciate SCCC’s dedication to not only teaching students but also caring for their health and well-being. Thank you to SCCC President Brad Bennett and staff for hosting me.
Stanton County High School
On Wednesday, I visited Stanton County High School in Johnson City. A group of student leaders gave me a tour of the school, and I appreciated hearing about what they are learning this school year. Thank you to these students, faculty and staff for hosting me.
Cimarron High School
I traveled to Cimarron on Thursday for a tour of Cimarron High School. During my visit, I met with students, faculty and staff to learn more about the various technical programs provided by CHS to help bolster student success. Thank you to the students who provided me with a tour, and thank you to Principal Alicia Forsyth and the entire CHS faculty and staff for their continued commitment to making certain Kansas students have bright futures.
Remembering KCKPD Officer Hunter Simoncic
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of KCKPD Officer Hunter Simoncic in the line of duty after he was hit by an armed suspect fleeing in a car. At the age of only 26, Officer Simoncic made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his community. The loss of this young man marks a tragic day for Kansas.
My prayers are with the loved ones of Officer Simoncic and the entire KCKPD during this difficult time. You can read more about Officer Simoncic’s life from KCTV here.
Attending FHSU Football Home Opener
On Thursday, I enjoyed watching the Fort Hays State University Tigers take on Angelo State University during their home opener at Lewis Field Stadium. I appreciated visiting with students, administrators, alumni and community supporters in attendance. Thank you to the FHSU community for welcoming me, and best of luck with the rest of your season!
Celebrating Labor Day
Labor Day is a time to recognize the American workforce, from nurses and doctors to builders and welders to teachers and fire fighters and so many more. Kansas is home to multiple thriving industries, including aviation, agriculture, healthcare and manufacturing.
Thank you to the hardworking Kansans who make our state a great place to work, live and raise a family!
Now Accepting 2025 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2030. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Monday, September 8, 2025. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.
Kansans in the Office
Capitol Tour
Brooke Braun of Manhattan
Michael Caraway of Goddard
Geri Caraway of Goddard
Cole Caraway of Goddard
Dalton Caraway of Goddard
Joshua Cogan of Olathe
Micah Cogan of Olathe
Jonathan Cogan of Olathe
Bellamy Cogan of Olathe
Skylar Cogan of Olathe
Kaile Crawford of Shawnee
Steven Meier of Minneapolis
Pamela Meier of Minneapolis
Robyn Setter of Lenexa
Courtney Setter of Overland Park
Jerry Speer of Olathe
Lily Speer of Olathe
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