CIVIC DEMAND FOR ANSWERS

Across Kansas, elected officials are ignoring their duty.

They avoid public forums, restrict access to closed-door meetings, and leave constituent questions unanswered—even when submitted through formal channels.
This is not representation. This is a dereliction of duty.

We Demand Answers.

On May 10th in Wichita, Leading Kansas hosted a public forum attended by over 200 community members. These were their most pressing questions:

• What are the limits of Presidential power, and what recourse do citizens have when those limits are exceeded?

Kansans are seeking clear, consistent answers on our system of Constitutional checks and balances and whether recent Executive actions defy that system. In recent months, the Executive Branch has unilaterally dismantled agencies and funding streams authorized by Congress, revoked birthright citizenship, denied due process to persons residing in the United States, and imposed tariffs without congressional oversight or approval. All the while, our elected representatives remain silent. Kansans deserve to know why our elected leaders are capitulating their legislative and oversight functions. These are not partisan concerns—they are civic ones. Inaction from our leaders is not acceptable.

• Why are critical federal funding streams being cut unilaterally and without explanation?

Kansas communities rely on these programs—especially in rural and agricultural areas. Cuts to things like rural water funding and U.S. foreign aid that supports domestic infrastructure and economic partnerships raise serious legal and practical concerns. What are the justifications? Who is making these decisions, and why are they not being publicly defended?

• Why are corporate-backed bills shaping Kansas law with no transparency?

Kansans want to know which legislation is written or influenced by outside interests—especially organizations like American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)—and why those bills are moving forward without public scrutiny. Our laws should reflect the needs of our people, not the agendas of corporate donors or national lobbying groups.

• What are the rules and standards for immigration enforcement in Kansas?

From the conduct of ICE agents to the legal protections of immigrant workers and the impact of executive orders, Kansans are demanding clarity. What rights do our immigrant neighbors and their families have? What are local leaders doing to ensure that enforcement practices align with state and federal law?

• Why aren’t our leaders publicly answering to ALL of the people they represent?

Our elected leaders are supposed to serve all Kansans, not just those that agree with them 100% of the time or fund their campaigns for reelection. Kansans are calling, emailing, attending meetings, and asking for public forums—and being met with silence. Representation does not mean hiding behind staff, donors, or party leaders. If you hold public office, you owe your constituents direct answers.

We Demand Action.

This isn’t about politics; it’s about duty. No matter your political affiliation, if you hold public office in Kansas, you serve all Kansans. When you refuse to face the public, explain your decisions, or engage with Kansans, you fail that duty.

We, the undersigned, call on every elected official in Kansas to:

• Hold open, public forums where constituents can share their stories and ask questions

• Provide clear written responses to these issues

• Reaffirm their duty to serve all Kansans—not just insiders, party loyalists, or donors

This is not a request. This is a formal civic demand for accountability.

Add Your Name. Join the Demand.

This petition will be delivered to every state and federal representative of Kansas and shared publicly. Sign to stand with Kansans demanding real leadership.