Kansas House of Representatives District 43 in Kansas State House District 43, Kansas

2026 Primary Election

• Kristen Schultz — Small business owner in Gardner, KS

  Kristen Schultz, a Democrat, is running for the Kansas House of Representatives, District 43, in the 2026 primary. A small business owner and former Gardner-Edgerton School Board member (2016-2022), she has lived in Gardner for 23 years. Her background also includes experience as a childcare provider, educator, and corporate law paralegal. Schultz is committed to cutting taxes for working families, allowing voters to put issues on the ballot, and advocating for responsible budgeting and educator support. She aims to represent her community's families, bringing their voice to Topeka with integrity.

• William (bill) Sutton — Incumbent Kansas State Representative in Gardner, KS

  William Sutton, known as Bill, is an incumbent Republican politician serving in the Kansas House of Representatives from the 43rd district. Born in Kansas City, Kansas, on August 31, 1967, he was first elected in November 2012 and assumed office on January 14, 2013. During his tenure, Sutton has chaired significant committees, including the House General Government Budget in 2017 and the House Elections Committee in 2019 and 2020. Before entering politics, he worked for Steel & Pipe Supply. He currently resides in Gardner, Kansas, with his wife, Lana, and their three children. He is seeking re-election in the August 2026 primary election for a two-year term.