LIBERAL FIRST
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American innovation is under attack. Across the country, it’s increasingly difficult for startups to protect their inventions from large companies that want to steal them.
It’s up to Congress and the new administration to fix the situation -- which will go a long way to achieving the president’s stated goal of boosting America’s global competitiveness.
I don’t remember too many times in the Legislature when we have had more than 100 votes in a four-day period, but Week 10 reached and exceeded that pinnacle with a total of 115. Now, you’re probably wondering, “How is it possible to make informed judgments on that many bills, amendments, resolutions, and confirmations in such a short time?” The answer being, “It is definitely a challenge, but thanks to the hearing process, staff briefings, a lot of reading, caucuses, and actual debate, we somehow make it happen.”
Carol and I celebrated our 39th anniversary on Saturday. She surprised me by taking the bus from Liberal to Topeka to celebrate. She said it was nice and a much better experience than driving for six hours like I do. It was great having her up here for the weekend, but I do miss being home and sleeping in my own bed for a couple of nights. Carol makes my service in the Legislature possible. She’s always there for me – whether it’s proofing my newsletter, listening after a tough week, or letting me know what’s going on at home. I couldn’t do it without her.
Over the years a lot of people have been in and out of the office that would make great public servants, and I’ve encouraged many of them to run for office.
While many are flattered by the encouragement, there is always one issue that makes them say no.
“It will hurt my business,” they say.
I push further, telling them that if we don’t have good candidates we won’t get the best leadership.
They agree. But the personal risk is too great. If they make a decision that might be best for the community, there will still be about half of the people who won’t like it, and that half will retaliate personally against their private business.
After a while, no one wants to look like a tourist.
Experienced travelers will buy a hat in a local store, convinced that having the same head covering will somehow make them less conspicuous. They stray off the main streets and take their meals in the places locals frequent. They leave their fancy backpacks in the hotel and carry only what they need to explore the city. And, most importantly, they don’t take photos.
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People protest vaccine mandates in New York City in September 2021. (Pamela Drew/Flickr) TOPEKA – As a result of the Kansas Attorney General vigorously defending […]
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