SHAWNEE, Kan. — Democrat Vanessa Vaughn West is making her case to voters, starting with a simple question: What issues matter to you? Residents have expressed concerns over escalating property taxes, a call for reduced government intervention, and the pressing issue of affordable housing.
West’s campaign for a Kansas House seat marks her second attempt in this western Kansas City district, traditionally dominated by Republicans since the late 1990s.
Despite this historical trend, West’s challenge against incumbent Republican state Rep. Angela Stiens has captured the attention of national Democratic leaders. In Kansas, Democrats are focused on gaining two seats in the 125-member House or three in the 40-member Senate to disrupt the Republican supermajority that has allowed the party to override vetoes from Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on pivotal issues like abortion and transgender rights.
Similar dynamics are unfolding in North Carolina, where flipping a single seat in either legislative chamber could strip Republicans of their veto-proof majority, which has frequently overridden Democratic gubernatorial decisions. Nevada presents a contrasting situation, as Democrats could secure a veto-proof majority over a Republican governor with just one additional Senate seat.
This year, over 5,800 state legislative seats across 44 states are on the ballot amid larger contests for federal and gubernatorial positions. Both major political parties are expected to invest millions into these crucial state-level races, especially in key battleground states like Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
Furthermore, there are states where the leading party’s victory is almost certain, yet vital issues remain at stake. Research has pointed out 14 states where a shift of just three seats or fewer could determine party supermajorities, granting significant legislative power that can override gubernatorial vetoes and control special sessions.
“Dominance in legislative power is crucial,” stated a political expert. “A supermajority gives additional legislative tools to initiate policies effectively.”
In Kansas, Stiens assumed her position after a House vacancy, playing a crucial role in supporting legislation that requires abortion providers to collect data on patients’ reasons for seeking abortions—a law currently suspended amid legal challenges.
West emphasizes that ongoing restrictions on abortion access are a driving force behind her campaign against Stiens. She advocates for abortion rights, reflecting the sentiments of her constituents in Johnson County, where a significant majority voted in favor during a statewide ballot measure in 2022.
“We need to ensure that legislators reinforce the people’s will,” West asserted while engaging with potential voters door-to-door.
The Kansas City suburbs, though still predominantly conservative and white, have become more diverse and increasingly supportive of Democratic candidates since 2016. National Democrats are also targeting areas like southwestern Topeka, where incumbent Republican Rep. Jesse Borjon faces a challenge from local Democrat Jacquie Lightcap, a school board member.
During recent campaigning in a neighborhood with prevalent three-car garages, Borjon highlighted his commitment to public education and introduced tax cuts. He noted that eliminating state income tax on Social Security benefits has been well-received among constituents concerned about intensifying property tax burdens.
“I want a representative who will uphold conservative values,” stated a local resident.
The narrative in North Carolina demonstrates the power dynamics at play. When a state representative switched parties, it gave Republicans the crucial seat needed for a veto-proof majority. This power was swiftly exercised to overturn numerous Democratic-led initiatives, including significant restrictions on abortion and legislation impacting education and gender identity discussions.
Republicans expanded their legislative footprint further by overriding multiple vetoes, fundamentally altering policies on critical societal issues.
As the number of legislative supermajorities reaches unprecedented levels, with Democrats holding nine and Republicans holding 20, every seat becomes pivotal. Democrats are focused on flipping just a few seats in several states, including Florida, Kansas, and North Carolina, to disrupt Republican dominance, while Republicans are similarly targeting Democratic strongholds.
However, achieving a supermajority does not guarantee smooth legislative operations. In states where one party dominates, internal divisions can hinder progress. In Missouri, for example, infighting among Republican factions has stalled major legislative goals, showcasing that a supermajority can sometimes complicate governance rather than facilitate it.
“While having a supermajority is advantageous, greater numbers can lead to more factions and discord within the party,” noted an election expert.
