Republican State Treasurer Ron Estes won the special election and will now become the next congressman to represent the 4th District of south-central Kansas. Estes defeated Democrat James Thompson by less than ten points. Libertarian Chris Rockhold was also on the ballot and drew two percent of the vote. KMUW's Deborah Shaar has more from Wichita.
Democratic Candidate Reflects on Close Election Loss with Eye on the Future
In Tuesday's special election for the 4th District Congressional seat, Democratic candidate James Thompson lost by about 7 percent of the vote, but placed higher than expected in the race – bringing national attention to the first significant election since President Trump took office. Thompson got 46 percent of the vote Tuesday night in his first run for public office. He trailed Republican Ron Estes who, by the end of the night, won 53 percent in the historically Republican district. Thompson said that he learned a lot during the eight-week campaign... and he may not be done with politics.
The win by Republican Ron Estes ensures that the all-Republican Kansas congressional delegation remains intact.
Thanks to KMUW Radio in Wichita for coverage of this election.