Kansas Sen. Julia Lynn, citing sister’s health, asks to be removed from November ballot

Sen. Julia Lynn, a 15-year veteran of the Kansas Senate, is seeking to drop out of the race for her Johnson County seat, citing her sister’s severe health problems.

The Olathe Republican announced Tuesday that she has asked for her name to be removed from the November general election ballot. Kansas restricts when a candidate can leave a race, but medical problems within the candidate’s immediate family is one of just a few valid reasons.

“Due to personal, family health reasons and the need to care for my sister’s severely declining health,” Lynn has asked to drop out, she wrote in a Facebook post. She didn’t elaborate on her sister’s health issues.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve you,” Lynn wrote.

Lynn, 63, is chair of the Senate Commerce Committee. She has expressed interest in reevaluating the state’s economic development incentives, including STAR Bonds, a controversial program that effectively allows developers to borrow against future anticipated tax revenues.

Lynn was unopposed in the Republican primary election in August. Her Democratic opponent, Stacey Knoell, has worked as a sign language interpreter and math teacher. In a statement, Knoell wished Lynn and her family the best.

“For me, nothing has changed. I was never running against Ms. Lynn; I am running FOR the people of District 9. While the Republicans nominate a replacement, I will continue to talk to voters so I can bring their voice to Topeka. My pledge is to legislate from a place of compassion, putting the needs of everyday Kansans ahead of corporate interests,” Knoell said.

As of July 23, Lynn had $68,062 cash on hand, according to campaign finance records. Knoell had $38,050 during the same time period.

Lynn announced her intent to withdraw on the last day allowed by law, Sept. 1. She is required to send the Kansas Secretary of State a notification of “severe medical hardship” signed by a medical doctor.

If Lynn’s name is removed, Republican precinct members in her district will be able to select a new nominee.

Senate President Susan Wagle, a Wichita Republican, said in a statement that Lynn “has always been dedicated to her family and I respect her decision to place them first during this time of hardship.”

The Star’s Steve Vockrodt contributed reporting

This story was originally published September 1, 2020 at 6:28 PM.