Ryan Gilbert is running in a packed Democrat primary in August to determine who will run against Estes in November.
In this full conversation, Ryan Gilbert walks through the experiences that shaped his decision to run and the perspective he brings to the race. He discusses living through financial instability and how those experiences inform his views on economic inequality, class divisions, and the realities many Kansans face when trying to meet basic needs. He explains how those conditions connect to larger political systems, including the role money plays in determining who can run for office, who receives party support, and how access to power is structured.
The conversation moves through his views on government accountability, including policing and public safety, where he emphasizes transparency, responsibility, and the need for systems that reflect the communities they serve. He also outlines positions on healthcare, including removing profit barriers to access, as well as broader policy areas like marijuana legalization, energy transitions, infrastructure, and wages.
Gilbert shares his personal background in depth, including time spent in the foster care system, experiences with abuse, and how those events shaped his understanding of institutions and their impact on people. He discusses how those experiences influence his approach to policy, particularly around child welfare, justice, and support systems. The conversation also covers identity, perception, and how different lived experiences affect how individuals are treated within systems.
Toward the end of the conversation, Gilbert addresses his positions on civil rights, including trans rights, and discusses what he sees as current risks at both the state and national level. He frames these issues as fundamental rights that should not be subject to political negotiation. He also talks about his campaign strategy, running in a competitive primary, and what he believes representation should look like for Kansas at the federal level.
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.com
You can now also watch on Kansas Helen YouTube or listen on the Kansas Helen Podcast on Apple and Spotify
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