Overview

• Vicki Schmidt launched her campaign on July 9, joining a growing roster of Republicans vying in the 2026 Kansas governor’s primary.
• She highlighted her tenure as insurance commissioner, citing $145 million recovered for families and more than $75 million in reduced business costs as proof of her effectiveness.
• Her 2023 breast cancer diagnosis and recovery underscored her personal resilience and commitment to public service.
• Contenders such as Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab and former governor Jeff Colyer have publicly questioned her conservative credentials based on past legislative votes.
• Kansas will hold its party primaries in August 2026 after Gov. Laura Kelly exits office due to term limits.