Kansas House of Representatives District 68 in Kansas State House District 68, Kansas

2026 Primary Election

• Nathan (nate) Butler — Incumbent Kansas House of Representatives in Junction City, KS

  Nathan Butler is an incumbent Republican representing District 68 in the Kansas House of Representatives, having assumed office in 2023. He is seeking re-election in the 2026 primary. Butler's diverse career includes experience as a realtor, associational mission strategist, pastor, Army officer, and civil servant; he currently serves as a Junction City Commissioner. He holds degrees from Wichita State, Central Michigan, and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. A key policy focus for Butler is K-12 education, advocating for sustained full funding and ensuring students are prepared for college or careers. He aims to ensure local voices are represented in the state legislature.

• Desree Pettera — Artist and Rancher in Junction City, KS

  Desree Pettera is a Republican candidate running for the Kansas House of Representatives to represent District 68 in the 2026 election, with the primary scheduled for August 4. Originally from NW Kansas and SW Nebraska, she moved to Junction City, Kansas, nearly 14 years ago. Pettera is a graduate of McCook Community College and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. She brings extensive experience in finance, banking, and water well development, and has been involved in ranching, raising registered angus breeding stock for over 45 years. She is also actively involved in the Western Art Genre. Pettera identifies as an "America First" candidate, advocating for upholding rights and principles with common sense, and opposing government growth and bureaucracy. She seeks to continue representing her community in Topeka.