John W. Carlin

Grandfather, 61st #ksleg Speaker of the House, 40th Governor of Kansas, 8th Archivist of the United States, and student of leadership

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

The choice on Nov. 3 is simple: Steady leadership or going back to the Brownback debacle. This is such a critical election. Let us learn from our past and continue our positive direction for Kansas — saying goodbye, hopefully for the last time, to the failed Brownback experiment.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

With the State Fair Debates behind us, at this point, I'd say the race for Kansas Governor is even. But I believe that will quickly change the more voters see the huge contrast between sane, sensible leadership — and Brownback on steroids. Read more here: https://t.co/Tu7eoBGllQ

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

On the flip side is Senator Masterson's experience at WSU, paid for by Koch Industries, for doing little or nothing — and in return pushing their agenda through #ksleg. And when those ideas have reached Kansas voters on a ballot, they have overwhelmingly rejected all his efforts.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

Read More: https://t.co/kQbIGndLCV

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

As we kick off a new political season here in Kansas, I'll start by saying the Democratic lineup top-to-bottom is the very best in my lifetime — no question. In contrast, the Republican candidates are the least qualified and no close contenders to the legacy of leaders past.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

In her memory, 2026 is a year that we should be looking for leaders more like Nancy Landon Kassebaum.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

With the passing of Senator Nancy Landon Kassebaum, we Kansans lost one of the best public servants our state has ever had. I was fortunate to have numerous opportunities, particularly while Governor, to not just get acquainted but work with her for the best interests of Kansas.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

Senator Kassebaum will always have a special place in the history of our great state. And her example should continue to inform and fuel our future. We should be proud of the legacy she provides for us Kansans, as a state known for pragmatic and collaborative leaders.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

August 4th, 2026 will go down as a clearly historic day, politically speaking. The amendment to elect Kansas Supreme Court justices was solidly defeated across the whole state. Read my full wrap-up thoughts here: https://t.co/4vQEQvoMm6

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

To those who haven't voted: If you care as I do about protecting our democracy for now as well as generations to come — VOTE! And take every opportunity to reach out to others who haven't.

No Kansan can sit this one out. VOTE on or before August 4. More: https://t.co/jEUVEcpqtD

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

@JerryMoran We need someone to stand up right now. And why not a Kansan?

Why not honor our mutual heroes like Eisenhower, Dole, and others by standing up and saying “enough is enough” to all this before it's too late?

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

Senator @JerryMoran, I've been patient. I've forgiven. I have understood the enormous pressure and the desire to protect Kansas against the terrible things this president can do. But now, democracy is on the line, and we can't wait anymore. More thoughts: https://t.co/UiwUmdnT9g

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

VOTE NO on August 4th! Allowing Kansas Supreme Court justices to be elected opens the door for big money to pick the court — rather than the nonpartisan, merit-based judicial selection system that has served Kansans so well for so many years.

Read more: https://t.co/Nd8TLV1ht9

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

Read my full thoughts here: https://t.co/mv7JWGXSnp

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

250 years after the U.S. declared its independence from a monarchy, we find ourselves drifting deeper into a more dictatorial form of government. But that's not a foregone conclusion. Our nation’s work – the work of living up to our founding creed – has always been unfinished.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

So, the eyes of Kansans will be on you, @JerryMoran. And I, for one, am perfectly willing to applaud any efforts to do right by our state, our people, and our future. Again, with so much on the line in this bill, a little bit of courage could mean the world to your constituents.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

As the Senate takes up the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill” this week, I want to send some appreciation to @JerryMoran for voicing opposition to many of its ugliest provisions – & standing up for Kansans in the process. Crunch time is here, & a little courage could go a long way.

[John W. Carlin @johnwcarlin]

So, to my Democratic friends, keep your eyes and ears open for positive actions – and keep your voices engaged. While there's almost no doubt that the end product will be ugly, there are many ways it could be even worse for the people and communities of our state and country.