One strong impression we took away from Saturday?s legislative coffee with Rep. Bob Brookens and Sen. Jeff Longbine is that we are blessed with a pair of quality legislators in Topeka.
Both men spoke openly and transparently about the challenging issues our state faces in these days. Their input was thoughtful, lacking the extreme partisan rhetoric we hear so frequently from Topeka and Wash?ington. These two men actually use their own minds and experiences to evaluate the value of legislation that comes before them.
We were especially impressed that Longbine and Brookens openly addressed their participation in the dinners the governor hosted at his mansion a few months ago. Both men said they were unaware of the partisan nature of the gatherings, and didn?t think the evening?s agenda violated the Kansas Open Meetings Act. If the current investigation proves otherwise, Longbine said he would willingly pay whatever fine might be assessed.
Smart. Forthright. Open to input. Speaking with integrity. We are fortunate, indeed. ?DR
