Kansas House of Representatives District 78 in Kansas State House District 78, Kansas

2026 Primary Election

• Kamesha Bernard — Candidate for Kansas House of Representatives in Olathe, KS

  KaMesha Bernard is a Democratic candidate for the Kansas House of Representatives, seeking to represent District 78, which includes a portion of Olathe. Her campaign for the August 4, 2026 primary focuses on key issues such as economic development, advocating for sustainable growth, supporting workers and small businesses, and ensuring state investment decisions yield long-term benefits for residents. She also emphasizes education policy, discussing funding priorities, classroom resources, and strengthening public schools for student success and community stability. Bernard is not an incumbent for this office and has completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey.

• Tim Lundberg — Executive Vice President at Lundberg & Associates Consulting in Olathe, KS

  Tim Lundberg is a Democratic Party candidate running for election to the Kansas House of Representatives, aiming to represent District 78. He is set to participate in the Democratic primary on August 4, 2026, where he will compete against KaMesha Bernard. Lundberg is not an incumbent for this office. Professionally, he serves as the Executive Vice President at Lundberg & Associates Consulting. Lundberg encourages public contributions to his campaign, expressing a desire to work for "the change we need" and be "part of the solution." He is based in Olathe, Kansas, and has an educational background from Pittsburg State University.

• Robyn R. Essex — Incumbent Kansas House of Representatives in Olathe, KS

  Robyn R. Essex is the Republican State Representative for Kansas House District 78, serving since January 2023. A long-time Olathe resident and MidAmerica Nazarene University graduate, she lives with her husband, Steve, and their three sons. Her conservative platform prioritizes tax relief for working people and seniors, strengthening criminal penalties for public safety, and improving Medicaid, special education, and mental health services. Essex also advocates for protecting children from fentanyl and online pornography, boosting classroom funding, and safeguarding military bases. She previously served as a city councilwoman, highlighting her dedication to community service.