Former GOP U.S. Sen. Nancy Kassebaum endorses Democrat Barbara Bollier

TOPEKA — Former Republican U.S. Sen. Nancy Kassebaum urged Kansans on Thursday to support the candidacy of Democrat Barbara Bollier for U.S. Senate.

Bollier is campaigning against U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, the 1st District Republican who won the GOP primary in August.

“I’ve known Barbara for many years and she has the character, know-how and compassion to represent all communities in our state,” Kassebaum said. “Barbara shares my belief in working with members of both parties to solve problems and get things done.”

Kassebaum, who represented Kansas in the Senate from 1979 to 1997, said bipartisanship and cooperation was still possible in Washington, D.C.

“Electing Dr. Bollier would be a positive step towards making that happen,” Kassebaum said. “We can count on her to seek solutions to the immediate challenges before us: addressing the tragic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic, restoring sound budget practices, investing in public education, and advocating for strong economic partnerships, not harmful tariffs.”

Previously, Bollier was endorsed by 75 current and former Republican political leaders.

Marshall has been endorsed by retiring U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts and former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole, both Kansas Republicans.

Former U.S. Sen. Sheila Frahm, appointed in 1996 to complete Dole’s unexpired term and subsequently defeated by Sam Brownback, endorsed Marshall. She said Marshall has proven himself on agriculture and health issues.

“I know that when it comes to leadership, it’s not about Republican or Democrat, but doing right by Kansans,” Frahm said.