Governor Kelly Releases Statement Condemning Messages Sent by Young Republicans

TOPEKA–Today, Governor Laura Kelly released the below statement condemning reports of messages sent by young Republican leaders in a group chat.

“While I appreciate the words of condemnation expressed by several Republican leaders and their expulsion of the Young Republicans chapter from the Kansas Republican Party, their words ring hollow when some of them repeatedly post content on social media that directly contradicts their statements condemning racism.

“I would encourage those leaders in the Republican Party to reflect on their own language and behavior to determine if they have provided license to younger followers to engage in such overtly racist dialogue. Those in positions of leadership have a responsibility to lead by example in both word and deed. They also need to remember that they represent our state and that Kansans celebrate diversity, not mock or condemn it.”