Students interested in politics at Baker, who want to voice their political opinions, might not have to look as far as they might think for a politician to talk to.
Democrat Tony Brown, Kansas State House Representative, and Lisa Johnston, U.S. Senate Democratic candidate, are faculty members at Baker who have careers in politics.
Brown is seeking re-election in the 10th District of the Kansas Legislature, which includes Baldwin City, Wellsville and sections of Ottawa and Lawrence.
For students who want a voice in Baldwin City and the surrounding communities, Brown would be a great way to make sure their opinions are heard. As a professor, Brown is the candidate for students to approach about local political issues.
Brown taught at Baker from 1990-2008, and is teaching LA401 this fall, and has had many responsibilities during his time at Baker.
Before becoming a state house representative in 2009, Brown served as a member of the Baldwin City Council from 2004-2008.
Brown believes public schools need to give children a chance to obtain a top-notch education so they will be able to be successful in their lives.
In terms of health care, Brown thinks there is an excessive number of Kansans who are scared of the financial burdens of becoming ill. He maintains that advocating a healthy style of living and limiting health care administration can cut down the costs of healthcare.
In order to maintain environmental balance, Brown believes it is important to push for renewable energy resources, recycling and conservation to aid the economy and environment.
Johnston is taking time away from Baker while running for a seat in the U.S. Senate.
She was a BU faculty member for 17 years and spent the last seven years as the Assistant Dean for Student Academic Services until she announced she would be taking a leave of absence at the end of the 2010 spring semester.
Johnston is running against Republican candidate Jerry Moran for a seat in the U.S. Senate. A Democratic candidate from Kansas has not been directly elected to the U.S. Senate since 1932.
Similar to Brown, health care, educational and environmental policies are top priorities for Johnston. She also has support for seniors and veterans, economic stability and individual liberty as primary concerns.
Whether voting for Johnston, Brown or neither, people who are can vote should fulfill their right to vote. Each candidate deserves consideration regardless of their political affiliation, and would be great candidates to talk to about politics because of how they could relate to students at BU.
