What three areas do you believe deserve priority from the insurance commissioner?
Fairness: The insurance commissioner’s job is to protect all Kansans in their time of need. As your insurance commissioner, my most important duty is to make sure you get the benefits you’ve paid for.
Openness: As commissioner, I’ll conduct open round-table meetings. I will listen to everyone. Consumers won’t have to come to Topeka. I’ll come and listen to you in your own communities. Together we will improve the way we do business.
Innovation: My first act as insurance commissioner is to conduct a review of every current statute, regulation and practice. I’ll do away with anything that doesn’t help Kansans or places an unnecessary burden on insurers.
What issues do you anticipate will arise from consumers?
The following are the top three concerns that I have heard as I traveled across Kansas:
- Health-care coverage for the 300,000 uninsured Kansans
- Health-insurance options for small-business owners
- Uninsured motorists
What do you believe are the primary responsibilities of the insurance commissioner?
The office of insurance commissioner was established by statute in 1871. It was established to be an office for the consumer, to be elected by the people, to serve as their advocate, and to regulate the insurance industry on their behalf. I will carry out the original intention of the office: I will be the voice of Kansans, I will serve as their advocate and regulate the insurance industry on their behalf.
What will you do to encourage more health-insurance companies to write health insurance in Kansas?
I’ll have an open door to new ideas. I will listen to everyone and host regular round table meetings. We need innovative solutions, especially when it comes to health-insurance coverage for Kansans. Good ideas don’t come with a party label, and they don’t come with a special business card. If we make all aspects of insurance smarter, easier and more efficient, more options will become available.
Why should voters elect you instead of your opponents?
I have a proven record of serving Kansans. I have been a legislator for 10 years and I am proud to be a public servant who actively listens to the voice of Kansans, and takes action on their behalf. I understand how important it is to be a true advocate for the consumer. A true advocate does not take money from the industry they regulate.
I refuse to take campaign contributions from the insurance industry, because they are not going to be my boss. You are! That’s the big difference between me and my opponent, and it shows my independence, as well as my dedication to transparency and accountability.