Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog’s announcement to run for governor of Kansas has sparked a range of reactions from officials, colleagues, and opponents. His decision to enter the Democratic Primary has been called both “foolhardy” and “extremely thoughtful”.

Reactions from Colleagues and Opponents

Gov. Laura Kelly, who has endorsed State Sen. Ethan Corson, described Skoog’s choice to file as “foolhardy” and “opportunistic.” However, Overland Park Councilmember Drew Mitrisin sees Skoog’s experience as a local elected official as a potential strength in the field of candidates.

Mitrisin believes that Skoog’s ability to build consensus and listen to different perspectives will serve him well in the governor’s office. He also thinks that Skoog’s mayoral experience has given him a unique understanding of the issues impacting everyday people and kept him in tune with Kansas politics.

Councilmember Holly Grummert, who has endorsed State Sen. Cindy Holscher, also supports Skoog’s bid. She thinks that Skoog’s skills as a mayor are transferable to the governor’s office and that he would be a strong contender.

Not everyone is supportive of Skoog’s bid, however. Mike Czinege, a businessman who lost to Skoog in the 2021 Overland Park mayoral election, is skeptical of Skoog’s ability to make tough decisions and thinks that he is too beholden to campaign donors.

Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.