A single newsprint sheet was distributed in Hutchinson-area neighborhoods calling western Kansas House Republicans “liberal.” Western Representatives Steven Becker, R-Buhler, John Doll, R-Garden City, and Don Hineman, R-Dighton are the focus of the comments.
The single page—“Kansans for Liberty News”—says, "These are eight of the most 'progressive,' 'liberal' Republicans in the 2013 and 2014 legislatures." Besides Becker, Doll and Hineman, others incumbents named are: Reps. Melissa Rooker, Fairway; Blaine Finch, Ottawa; Diana Dierks, Salina; Don Hill, Emporia; and Tom Moxley, Council Grove recently reported the Hays Daily News.
The handbill gives the legislators’ votes on Common Core Standards, gun issues, abortion, religious freedom, Medicaid and renewable energy.
Doll says he considers himself “a localist” on issues, considering how it will affect Garden City, then the rest of the state. He went on to say he didn’t give the notice much weight. "I looked at it and didn't pay a lot of attention to it," he says. He also said he didn't like the photo of him used by Kansans for Liberty News.
Hineman says the Kansas Chamber of Commerce wasn’t successful in finding challengers for him, so another organization is trying.
Becker did not see the sheet. When told about it, he says if competition steps up, he’s ready.
"I do receive a lot of positive feedback for my service," says Becker.
The handout was "Published for Kansans for Liberty by RMC Inc. Craig Gabel President."
Gabel could not be reached for comment.