# Laura Kelly > Governor of Kansas since 2019 **Wikidata**: [Q6499080](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q6499080) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laura_Kelly) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/laura-kelly ## Summary Laura Kelly is an American politician and the current Governor of Kansas, serving since 2019. She is a member of the Democratic Party and previously served in the Kansas Senate. Kelly is known for her moderate political stance and focus on education and healthcare issues in Kansas. ## Biography - Born: January 24, 1950 - Nationality: United States - Education: Bradley University, Indiana University - Known for: Serving as Governor of Kansas since 2019 - Employer(s): Governor of Kansas - Field(s): Politics, Government ## Contributions Laura Kelly has contributed to Kansas politics through her service as a state senator and as the current governor. Her administration has focused on expanding Medicaid in Kansas, increasing education funding, and managing the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As governor, she has worked to balance the state budget while maintaining essential services and has advocated for bipartisan cooperation in state government. ## FAQs What is Laura Kelly's political background? Laura Kelly served in the Kansas Senate for 14 years before being elected governor in 2018. She represented the 18th district in the Kansas Senate from 2005 to 2019. What are Laura Kelly's main policy priorities? As governor, Kelly has prioritized expanding Medicaid, increasing education funding, and managing the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also focused on economic development and infrastructure improvements in Kansas. What is Laura Kelly's educational background? Kelly attended Bradley University and Indiana University, though specific degrees are not mentioned in the source material. ## Why They Matter Laura Kelly matters as the current governor of Kansas, where she has implemented significant policy changes including Medicaid expansion and increased education funding. Her moderate political approach and ability to work across party lines have been notable in a traditionally conservative state. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and her focus on bipartisan solutions have shaped Kansas politics in recent years. ## Notable For - First Democratic governor of Kansas since 2011 - Successfully expanded Medicaid in Kansas - Increased education funding in the state - Managed Kansas's response to the COVID-19 pandemic - Known for her moderate political stance in a conservative state ## Body ### Early Life and Education Laura Jeanne Kelly was born on January 24, 1950, in the United States. She pursued higher education at Bradley University and Indiana University, though specific degrees are not detailed in the available information. Her educational background provided a foundation for her future career in public service. ### Political Career Kelly's political career began with her election to the Kansas Senate in 2004, representing the 18th district. She served in this position from 2005 to 2019, gaining experience in state legislation and building relationships across party lines. Her 14-year tenure in the Kansas Senate established her as a moderate voice in state politics. In 2018, Kelly ran for governor of Kansas as a Democrat, winning the election and becoming the first Democratic governor of the state since 2011. Her victory was notable in a state that has traditionally leaned Republican, reflecting her appeal to moderate voters and her ability to bridge political divides. ### Governorship As governor, Kelly has focused on several key policy areas. One of her most significant achievements has been the expansion of Medicaid in Kansas, which has provided healthcare coverage to thousands of low-income residents. She has also prioritized education funding, working to increase resources for Kansas schools and universities. Kelly's administration has been marked by her response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where she implemented various public health measures and worked to secure federal aid for the state. Her approach to the pandemic has been characterized by a balance between public health concerns and economic considerations. ### Political Philosophy and Approach Throughout her career, Kelly has been known for her moderate political stance and her willingness to work across party lines. This approach has been particularly notable in Kansas, where she has sought to find common ground with Republican legislators on various issues. Her ability to maintain a moderate position in a conservative state has been a defining feature of her political career. ### Legacy and Impact Laura Kelly's tenure as governor has been marked by significant policy changes, particularly in healthcare and education. Her success in expanding Medicaid and increasing education funding represents a shift in Kansas politics, demonstrating the potential for Democratic leadership in the state. Her moderate approach and focus on bipartisan cooperation have set a tone for governance that differs from the more partisan politics often seen in other states. Kelly's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic has also been a significant part of her legacy, as she navigated the challenges of public health management while working to maintain economic stability in Kansas. Her ability to manage these competing priorities has been a key aspect of her governorship. ### Personal Life While specific details about Kelly's personal life are limited in the available information, her long career in public service suggests a deep commitment to Kansas and its residents. Her transition from state senator to governor demonstrates a trajectory of increasing responsibility and influence in state politics. ### Political Affiliations Kelly is affiliated with the Democratic Party, though her moderate stance often sees her working with Republicans on various issues. This bipartisan approach has been a hallmark of her political career and has contributed to her success in a traditionally conservative state. ### Current Status As of the latest available information, Laura Kelly continues to serve as the Governor of Kansas, having been elected in 2018 and presumably serving a full term. Her ongoing role in Kansas politics continues to shape the state's policies and political landscape. ## References 1. [Governors - National Governors Association](https://www.nga.org/governors/) 2. [Source](https://justfacts.votesmart.org/candidate/biography/34496/laura-kelly) 3. Virtual International Authority File 4. [Source](https://www.ksn.com/news/capitol-bureau/governor-laura-kelly-signs-new-bills-into-law/) 5. Google Knowledge Graph 6. [Source](https://governor.kansas.gov/governor/) 7. [Personality Database ™️ | Famous People and Characters | Personality Database ™️ 2022](https://www.personality-database.com/profile/167300/laura-kelly-governmentusa-mbti-personality-type)