Candace Landers

Candace Landers is a labor advocate and former teacher from Wichita running to flip a seat in the Kansas House in November. Through her work in the classroom, Candace gained a deep understanding of what it takes to help the next generation succeed, and as a union organizer, she’s seen the way the challenges educators face are often rooted in the policy decisions of state lawmakers. Candace is stepping up to be an advocate for fully funded public schools, responsible government, and a Kansas where working families can afford to put down roots.

District 88’s Republican incumbent was elected by 187 votes in 2024 and just 114 in 2022. This year is shaping up to be just as competitive, and Candace is well-positioned to flip this seat and help Democrats build power in the Kansas House.

2026 is a historic opportunity to build Democratic power and break the Republican supermajority in the Kansas House.

The DLCC has been on the ground in Kansas for years, capitalizing on every opportunity to build momentum and chip away at Republican control of the state’s legislature. This year, we’ve identified the most competitive House districts and are bringing national attention to candidates with the best chances of flipping Republican-held seats or protecting key Democratic footholds. 

Kansas House Democrats only need to gain five seats to break a supermajority Republicans have used to override Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s vetoes and pass deeply unpopular legislation, such as recent attempts to upend constitutional rights and attack democracy. Breaking the supermajority would be a critical step towards progress for Kansas.

This year’s elections are a once-in-a-decade opportunity to begin turning the tide in Kansas and in red states across the country. A brighter future is possible for all Kansans, and the DLCC is ready to support our candidates every step of the way.