Kansas Helen Podcast

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Jacobs closes by restating that he is a non-affiliated applied anthropologist running for Kansas governor to push a systemic audit of state violence. He says winning does not stop or define the work. He asks people to help with petitioning if they want to support the campaign and says people who want to donate money should support ICT Tree Huggers and direct community work instead.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Jacobs describes policing as domestic terror and connects that view to police patrols, surveillance, impoverished neighborhoods, gun violence language, gang lists, constitutional rights, fines, fees, incarceration, and class. He argues that police violence should be discussed as a system rather than reduced only to the tool used in an incident.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.The discussion focuses on deescalation, officer training, and the police response in the Deandre Hill case. Helen discusses questions about trainees, use of force training, hallway safety, backup, how officers knocked and announced themselves, and whether the officers followed their own deescalation policy.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.This section discusses using public records requests to collect police data, including incidents where officers pulled guns, officer training records, body camera footage, demographics, and police reports. Helen explains why she wants to collect the data herself instead of relying only on outside summaries, and Jacobs discusses how statistics can be shaped by the narrative used to interpret them.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.This section discusses using public records requests to collect police data, including incidents where officers pulled guns, officer training records, body camera footage, demographics, and police reports. Helen explains why she wants to collect the data herself instead of relying only on outside summaries, and Jacobs discusses how statistics can be shaped by the narrative used to interpret them.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Helen discusses the Michael Gonzalez case, including vandalism at a Catholic church, media coverage, mental health, self-medication, jail, solitary confinement, and the lack of treatment options. The section focuses on how a property crime became part of a larger discussion about prosecution, rehabilitation, public pressure, and whether the system offered help before punishment.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Helen criticizes local media for repeating police narratives instead of independently investigating deaths, crashes, and police violence. The section discusses police scanners, official statements, family perspectives, watchdog journalism, corporate media ownership, and how public narratives are shaped before the full facts are known.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.This section discusses elected officials who say they cannot speak publicly after a police killing. The conversation covers First Amendment rights, legal advice, city interests, police department interests, political careers, and the difference between saying someone cannot speak and saying they choose not to speak.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Helen discusses documenting people who say they or their families were harmed by the Wichita Police Department. The section covers the process of collecting names, folders, claims, records, and family stories, while also protecting sources and deciding what can be made public. Jacobs connects the discussion to his view that police departments protect themselves and that hidden violence needs to be exposed.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses Walmart, billionaires, corporate power, public subsidies, food stamps, NFL stadium ownership, and election spending. He says taxpayers help cover corporate losses while profits stay private, argues that no one needs to be a billionaire, and says concentrated wealth gives people too much political power. The conversation also closes with discussion of unaffiliated voters and the Democratic primary.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.This section discusses local elected leaders, national political language, Christian nationalism, MAGA values, and how national political forces can show up in local government. The conversation also covers the difference between calling out public officials, criticizing their choices, and connecting local power to broader political systems.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.The discussion covers online communication, repeated responses, reactionary posting, and Jacobs’ use of symbols, satire, and a distinct online persona. Jacobs explains that his online style is intentional and says it is different from how he communicates in person. The section also discusses the internet as a place where people perform, react, and misunderstand each other.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses minimum wage, living wages, small businesses, taxes, paperwork, overhead, and pricing. He says he supports raising wages and describes paying a position at his law firm more than he had been paid for similar work. He also discusses why businesses struggle and says higher prices are often about profit rather than only rising costs.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses his view that government should provide the foundation that capitalism grows from. He says basic needs like food, power, clothing, healthcare, and electricity should be secured first, and argues that billionaires benefit from infrastructure they did not build while privatizing gains and socializing losses.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Jacobs explains why he is running for governor and how this campaign connects to his earlier campaigns for Wichita mayor and Sedgwick County sheriff. He says winning is not the main point of the campaign. He describes the campaign as a way to create a counter-narrative, challenge the two-party system, encourage non-affiliated voter registration, and put different ideas into public discussion.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses creating a new deal focused on jobs, the power grid, roads, infrastructure, and rail. He talks about connecting Wichita with surrounding communities and building a route through Emporia, Topeka, Lawrence, and Kansas City, including how rail could create more options for travel and economic activity.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.This section discusses transparency, cronyism, and the relationship between private interests and public office. The conversation covers elected officials using official titles on social media, blocking political opposition, business events with elected leaders, closed-door influence, and the difference between personal pages and public-facing political pages.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses energy policy, nuclear power, wind, solar, batteries, oil, and the need to diversify energy sources. He talks about his background in power plant technology and as a nuclear power plant operator, explains why he views nuclear power as efficient and clean, and says the country has fallen behind by focusing on where the money is instead of adapting.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Jacobs discusses poverty, crime, houselessness, mental health, and self-medication as symptoms of larger economic and social systems. He argues that police are a reactionary force and that communities need responsible systems that address the conditions creating harm. The discussion also covers healthcare access, education, labeling students, and how people can be written off instead of supported.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses marijuana legalization and says it is one of his top priorities. He connects legalization to affordability, accountability, adaptability, farmers, tax revenue, hemp, environmental needs, and keeping Kansas money in Kansas instead of sending it across state lines to Oklahoma, Missouri, Colorado, and Kansas City.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.This section looks at why local government matters, including policing, city councils, public safety spending, homelessness, mental health calls, and alternatives to armed police responses.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more at the link in my bio. You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify.#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses universal healthcare and says the country needs to start moving toward a single-payer healthcare system. He says the transition would need to happen slowly because of the number of people employed by insurance companies, and he says healthcare should not be run for profit. He also says prescription medication advertising should not be allowed and that pharmaceutical companies should not control healthcare decisions.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the US House District 4 race here: [https://kansashelen.substack.com](https://kansashelen.substack.com)You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Jacobs explains that he is not approaching the governor race as a traditional representative. He says he is approaching it as an applied anthropologist and describes his goal as using research, field work, and systemic audits to dismantle systems rather than reform them. He argues that symbolic victories and small reforms do not create broad justice if the larger systems remain in place.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Gilbert discusses Palestine and Gaza, says he does not support Israel while Netanyahu is in power, and describes U.S. support as complicity in genocide.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more at the link in my bio. You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify.#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.Jacobs explains the meaning behind Not Cops and how it grew from protest work into the center of his campaign. He describes it as a way to question public safety, community care, policing, control, government violence, and older systems that he says still shape current laws and policies.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #governor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.In this segment, Ryan Gilbert describes a foster care placement where he experienced stability and consistency. He explains how that environment differed from other placements and what it showed about how support systems can function when they are working as intended.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Bryant Jacobs is running for Governor of Kansas in the 2026 election.In this full conversation, Bryant Jacobs discusses his decision to run for Governor and the experiences that shaped his perspective on leadership and policy in Kansas. He explains what led him to step into the race and how his background influences the priorities he is bringing forward in his campaign. The discussion begins with his view of the current political environment in Kansas, including how decisions are being made at the state level and how those decisions impact everyday Kansans.Jacobs outlines his approach to governing, focusing on how he believes the role of the Governor should function in relation to the legislature, state agencies, and the public. He discusses the importance of transparency, communication, and accountability, and how those principles should guide decision-making. He also addresses how long-term planning fits into state government, including the need to move beyond short-term political cycles and focus on sustained outcomes for communities across Kansas.The conversation covers a range of policy areas, including the state budget, economic development, and how resources are allocated. Jacobs talks about how economic decisions affect both urban and rural areas differently and how the state can approach development in a way that reflects those differences. He also discusses workforce issues, infrastructure needs, and how state-level policy connects to local outcomes.Healthcare is another major topic, including access to care across Kansas and the challenges faced by rural hospitals and providers. Jacobs discusses how healthcare policy decisions at the state level influence availability and affordability, and how those systems interact with federal programs. He also touches on mental health services and the need for broader access across communities.Education is also addressed, including funding, classroom resources, and how the state supports both students and educators. Jacobs discusses how policy decisions impact schools at the local level and how those decisions connect to workforce development and long-term economic outcomes. He also speaks to the importance of stability and consistency in education policy.The conversation includes discussion around public safety and the role of law enforcement, including how accountability is handled and how communities interact with those systems. Jacobs outlines his views on how public safety should function and how policy decisions can shape outcomes across different communities.Throughout the conversation, Jacobs returns to the idea of representation and what it means to serve Kansans at the state level. He discusses how elected officials balance competing priorities and how decisions made in state government affect daily life across Kansas. He also addresses the role of voters in shaping those decisions and the importance of engagement in the political process.Toward the end of the conversation, Jacobs reflects on the structure of the campaign itself, including how he is approaching the race, the challenges of running statewide, and what he hopes voters take away from his candidacy. He emphasizes the importance of participation in the upcoming election and the role voters play in determining the direction of the state.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the Kansas Governor race here: You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #kansasgovernor Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.In this section, Gilbert talks about the money barrier in congressional campaigns and says he wants to show support through people, not just dollars. He says he may not have the $300,000 that gets candidates taken seriously by the political establishment, but he wants to walk into the race with people behind him instead of corporate money. The conversation also connects campaign donations to political accountability and the question of who candidates work for once elected.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about the KS 4th Congressional District race here: You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher continue discussing the realities of serving in the Statehouse, emphasizing that representatives are one of many voices and must operate within a larger system. They highlight the importance of focusing on what can realistically be accomplished rather than broader issues outside the scope of the position.The conversation also explores internal legislative dynamics, including how leadership assigns committee positions and how that can influence which voices are heard in key decision-making spaces. They discuss how this structure can shape outcomes by limiting or redirecting the impact of individual representatives, even when they have relevant expertise.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.In this segment, Ryan Gilbert talks about being separated from siblings while in the foster care system. He describes how those separations occurred and the impact it had on maintaining family connections during that time.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss the importance of focusing on what a state representative can realistically accomplish. They emphasize that representatives operate as one member of a larger legislative body, meaning even aligned candidates may not be able to pass every issue voters care about.The discussion highlights the need for voters to understand the role of their representatives, including the importance of starting conversations, advocating for their district, and working within the broader system. They also stress the importance of electing individuals who will represent the needs of their district rather than outside interests, while maintaining realistic expectations about how change happens within the legislature.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.In this segment, Ryan Gilbert discusses how identity and perception can affect how individuals are treated within systems. He talks about being perceived differently in various situations and how those perceptions influence interactions, expectations, and outcomes. He connects these experiences to broader discussions about inequality and how people navigate institutions.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas discusses term limits and the concept of an Article V Convention, which would allow states to propose constitutional amendments. He explains that efforts at the national level have focused on issues like a balanced budget amendment and term limits, while also noting that states would ultimately need to approve any changes.The discussion also returns to the idea of term limits at the state level, with Thomas expressing support for limiting time in office to prevent long-term consolidation of power. Both emphasize the importance of maintaining accountability and ensuring that elected officials remain focused on serving their districts rather than holding positions indefinitely.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.In this segment, Ryan Gilbert discusses situations where law enforcement was aware of abuse and how those situations were handled. He describes the gaps between awareness and action, and how those experiences shaped his perspective on accountability within systems that are meant to protect people.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss how political communication is changing, particularly with the use of social media and digital platforms. Reicher explains her approach to sharing content across multiple platforms, including long-form interviews and shorter clips designed for different audiences.The discussion highlights the challenges of reaching voters, especially in rural areas, and the need to adapt messaging depending on the platform. They talk about how content often needs to be simplified or reformatted to engage people who may not actively seek out political information, as well as the importance of building systems and processes to consistently communicate with a broader audience.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss how political incentives shape decision-making and voter behavior. They talk about the growth of unaffiliated voters, noting that many people are moving away from party identification and becoming more selective about who they support.The discussion also explores how the structure of elections can influence candidate behavior, including the pressure to focus on winning rather than long-term governance. They reflect on how some candidates choose to run based on opportunity rather than necessity, while others decide not to challenge incumbents if they believe those officials are doing a good job. The conversation highlights how these dynamics affect competition, voter choice, and engagement in the political process.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.In this segment, Ryan Gilbert discusses a personal experience involving the legal system, including how charges were handled and how the situation developed. He explains how that experience shaped his perspective on how the legal system operates in practice and how individuals can be impacted by decisions made within it.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss term limits and the role of long-term incumbency in government. They reflect on how extended time in office can create disconnects from everyday realities and reduce opportunities for new leadership and mentorship.The conversation also explores campaign finance and how funding influences political systems at multiple levels. They discuss how financial support can shape elections, including the role of outside funding and how resources may be distributed across races. The discussion highlights broader concerns about accountability, influence, and how structural factors impact decision-making within government.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He shares details about his upbringing.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He outlines views on policing and accountability.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas discusses the challenges of running as a third-party candidate, reflecting on his previous campaign as a Libertarian and the limitations of that path. He explains that despite receiving a relatively strong share of the vote, structural barriers and voter familiarity with major parties make it difficult for third-party candidates to win.The conversation also explores how party labels influence voter perception and decision-making, including how unfamiliar party designations can lead to confusion. Both discuss how the current political system makes it challenging for third parties to gain traction, often requiring candidates to align with one of the major parties in order to remain competitive in elections.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss campaign finance and the challenges of running against incumbents. Thomas explains that incumbents often have advantages in funding and visibility, which can make it difficult for new candidates to compete, especially in districts where seats are rarely open.The conversation also touches on broader dynamics in Kansas elections, including how competitive races can shift depending on the district and its demographics. They discuss how some areas have more predictable outcomes while others, particularly those with changing populations, may be more competitive. The discussion highlights the importance of voter engagement, candidate visibility, and understanding how campaign structures influence election outcomes.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He discusses communication with voters and accountability.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss the importance of primary elections and voter participation. They highlight how, in many Kansas districts, the primary effectively determines the outcome of the election due to district makeup, making it critical for voters to pay attention to those races.The conversation also addresses voter awareness, including confusion about who can participate in elections and the need for better information about upcoming ballots. They encourage broader participation across all affiliations and emphasize the importance of staying informed and engaged throughout the election process, not just during general elections.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He shares his motivation for running in this race.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss the importance of civic education and understanding how different levels of government function. They highlight how many people direct concerns to the wrong level of government, such as bringing local issues to state officials, and how gaps in civics education contribute to that confusion.The conversation also focuses on the role of elected officials in communicating with constituents. Reicher emphasizes the responsibility of representatives to provide clear, factual updates and create opportunities for engagement, while Thomas outlines his intention to be more active in meeting with community members, attending local events, and maintaining communication throughout the year. They discuss how consistent outreach and education can help voters better understand the process and hold officials accountable.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #republican #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He compares grassroots campaigns with establishment-backed candidates.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Robert Thomas is running for Kansas House District 61, representing parts of Jackson, Pottawatomie, and Riley counties, including Holton, Delia, Westmoreland, St. Marys, Onaga, and parts of Manhattan.In this portion of the conversation, Thomas and Reicher discuss the use of STAR bonds and public funding for large development projects, including concerns about how those decisions are made. They talk about the scale of recent projects and the role of public input, questioning whether communities should have more direct say when large developments could significantly change their areas.The discussion also explores how these investments are evaluated, including whether they provide a return for taxpayers and how benefits are distributed. They highlight concerns about transparency, decision-making processes, and long-term accountability, noting that outcomes of these projects may not be clear until years later, often after the officials involved are no longer in office.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas House District 61, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.com/s/kansas-houseYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen Youtube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #ksleg #vote #2026elections #kansashouse Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He explains financial barriers tied to running for office.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe

Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.He addresses the influence of money in elections and political access.See the full interview on Kansas Helen Substack and learn more about Kansas’ 4th Congressional District, including the most recent campaign finance analysis here: https://kansashelen.substack.comYou can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify#kansas #vote #2026elections #congress #grassroots Get full access to Kansas Helen at kansashelen.substack.com/subscribe