Kansas incumbent faces far-left challenge from self-described communist in Democratic primary

[RandySF]

LAWRENCE — The Democratic primary for a Lawrence House seat features two candidates who offer different visions for representing one of Kansas’ most progressive legislative districts.

Rep. Suzanne Wikle was first elected two years ago and has served on legislative committees on health and human services, insurance and financial institutions and pensions. She says her expertise lies in being a strong voice for children and families.

T.J. Campsey has positioned himself as a candidate outside of the status quo. He has a background as a local political activist and brewer at Free State Brewery. He said his 20 years of experience in lobbying and organizing will be valuable if elected.

He also identifies as a communist.

“The reason I use that label is because I want to defend and expand our democratic rights so that the working class majority can have more power,” Campsey said. “I think that the best way to really advocate and get more power is by expanding our democratic rights and our labor rights.”




https://kansasreflector.com/2026/07/13/kansas-incumbent-faces-far-left-challenge-from-self-described-communist-in-democratic-primary/

[slightlv]

1. This bothers me...

we're getting all kinds of outsiders calling themselves anything and everything that will trigger R's and I's. I'm a Kansan, tho this particular race doesn't effect me, except in the way it will or won't affect the state legislature. Look, I'm as progressive as they come. Even have had some good fights back in the past around here about my attitudes... but I think at this juncture, we're in too precarious a position to be playing loose with terms like communist. If we could get people to understand social democracy, we'll be doing good. Am I just nuts for thinking this way? I'm just an old time FDR democrat.