1) Most Legislative sessions involve hard choices among state agencies competing for limited funds.  What are your spending priorities and how should budget shortfalls be addressed?

Top spending priority, to strengthen the education institutions throughout the state. Budget short falls should be delt with in a realistic & pragmatic fashion. IN an emergency situation I would consider all options. The State should maintain a role in maintaining a healthy economy & encourage economic development.

2)  How do you balance the need for additional energy production in the state with environmental concerns, including the use of water? 

Very Carefully – Energy concerns are long term and will require the best minds in our community & state to solve. Concentrating on wind, solar & conservation we must work closely with Congress on a national level. Water remains a very important resource. The draining of the aquifer must be discussed. As well as the spill over.

3)  What is your assessment of the level of funding for education at all levels (pre-K – University) and how do you intend to address issues such as deferred maintenance and faculty salaries to keep our schools competitive on a national level? 

To be able to compete in a global society we must address the needs of our public schools K-12 & our Universities. It seems to often we put our education systems last, when in reality it should first. Tuition hikes are driving students away.

4)  What policies do you think Kansas should have regarding illegal immigrants?

• Need to toughen policies & penalties

• Penalties for business that hire

• Allow workers that we need in the country to have a temporary work permit