Why did you decide to run for state treasurer?
“I am proud of the accomplishments achieved during my first term as state treasurer, but there is still work to be done. Another four years in office will allow me to further improve Learning Quest with more investment options and lower program costs, expand my financial literacy initiatives to reach more Kansans and return more in cash and unclaimed property.”
What do you see as the greatest challenges facing the treasurer’s office?
“Enhancing and improving Learning Quest, expanding financial literacy initiative and returning unclaimed property.”
How can the treasurer more effectively meet the needs of the people of Kansas during the next few years?
“I have worked hard over the last four years managing the nearly $18 billion that comes to the state treasurer’s each year. I have been successful in reconnecting Kansans with cash and unclaimed property, returning a record $11 million last year alone. Learning Quest, the state’s 529 college savings plan, now has increased investment options and is ranked as one of the top 529 plans in the nation. Additionally, I have made teaching financial literacy skills a personal priority, starting numerous initiatives to educate Kansans of all ages about money management.
“If re-elected I hope to further enhance the Learning Quest program by offering more investment options while holding down program costs. I also plan to work toward an increase in the tax incentive. In addition, I will continue to promote Learning Quest and encourage all parents and grandparents to develop a plan to start saving to help with the rising cost of a college education. I have many more ideas for financial literacy initiatives that another term in office would allow me to reach out to even more Kansans with money management education.”
What, if anything, needs to be done to improve the operation of the Treasurer’s office?
“During my first term, I was able to reduce the number of employees in the agency and eliminated my office’s reliance on state general fund monies. I am committed to ensuring that my office runs efficiently while providing Kansans with improved services.
“The Learning Quest program manager contract is currently open for bids. In a second term, I hope to oversee the awarding of this contract to ensure Kansans have a number of investment options within Learning Quest while lowering program costs. I also hope to introduce legislation to increase the tax incentive.
“I will continue to work hard returning cash and unclaimed property to Kansans. And I hope to further expand my financial literacy initiatives to educate more Kansans on money management techniques.”
Tell me what you have to offer the state of Kansas. Why should we vote for you instead of your opponent?
“I have a solid track record serving as state treasurer, working to better the lives of Kansans statewide. Having served in both the Kansas House and Kansas Senate, I have the experience to work with the Legislature so that my office can better serve Kansans. I am a certified public accountant, practicing for 16 years, and am a former small business owner. I have the enthusiasm and energy to continue traveling all across this state promoting Learning Quest, reconnecting Kansans with cash and unclaimed property and fostering an increased understanding of money management skills.”