Dear Friend:

I know it has been a while since my last newsletter.  August was devoted to family matters.  On primary election day, my mom lost her very long battle with dementia.  I needed a personal time out.  I figured you did too – the summer primary was a brutal battle for many of my colleagues.  I felt very blessed that I was unopposed, and able to be present for my family in my mother’s final months.  However, with school back in session, and summer over, it’s time to focus energy and attention on the November general election.

My Candidacy

I was elected in 2012 with the promise to listen to all sides before making up my mind, think for myself rather than simply rubber stamping a particular political agenda, and fight for common sense solutions to the problems facing ordinary Kansans.  I stand by my voting record as evidence that I have lived up to that promise.  

I have fought for increased funding for our public schools, increased local control for Shawnee Mission schools, and key new investments for KU and the KU Medical Center including funding for a new medical education building. I voted to protect Medicare coverage for our seniors, voted to protect the successful wind energy sector of our economy, and voted to protect our independent judiciary.  

Along the way, I have cultivated relationships with fellow lawmakers from around the state and worked diligently to breakdown the barriers between Johnson County and the rest of Kansas.  I consider myself a consensus builder and the foundation of trust I have forged with many of my colleagues pays dividends when debating difficult issues.  Having experience on the job, a network of contacts, a handle on who the appropriate issue experts are when research is needed, and relationships in place to facilitate negotiations, I believe I am uniquely qualified to represent the district. 

Election Day is November 4th (with advance voting by mail beginning on October 15, and in-person advance voting on Monday, October 20th).  I have an opponent so I am working hard to earn re-election.  You have been extremely supportive of my work these past two years, and I have been proud to represent you.   Moral support keeps me going through the session, but now its time to take action.  Please show your support by turning out to cast your ballot on my behalf!

Campaign Work

I am working my way around the district going door-to-door to visit with as many of you as possible in person.  I am pleased with the reception I have been receiving, and love when you take a moment to share your thoughts.  I have been delivering advance ballot applications along with my campaign card just in case you would like to vote early.  

My sign team has been busy placing yard signs.  If you would like one, just contact me to let me know.  We deliver!

I continue to have constituent coffees to meet more of you in an informal manner.  If you would be willing to host a small gathering, please let me know.  It is a great way to spend an hour with constituents and engage in a more meaningful conversation than we can have on your doorstep.

Recent Endorsements

You will see from my list of endorsements that I work across party lines and with dozens of organizations to ensure public policy remains pragmatic and thoroughly vetted – not based in ideology or knee-jerk reactions to hot topics in the news.  The endorsements reflect my willingness to listen, research and think through the issues before making up my mind.  

Kansas National Education Association  * Johnson County Educators PAC * Greater KC Chamber of Commerce/KC Civic Council BizPac * SEIU * Kansas AFL-CIO * Tri-County Labor Council * Planned Parenthood  * Kansas Farm Bureau * Kansas Livestock Association * Sierra Club * Mainstream Coalition 

How You Can Help

A successful campaign requires money to fund the necessary mailings, signs, advertising, and other methods of sharing my message.   Campaign finance rules limit the maximum contribution from an individual, company or PAC to $500 per election cycle.  Please know that every dollar counts and your donation, no matter the amount, helps move my campaign towards success on Election Day, Nov. 4.  You can donate online or if you prefer, checks can be mailed to:

Donate online or mail a check to:

Melissa Rooker for State Representative
4124 Brookridge Drive
Fairway, KS 66205

Voting

None of this matters if you do not exercise your right to vote!  It is the foundation of our American democracy, yet too many people sit on the sidelines and decline to participate.  Low voter turn-out and voter apathy are dangerous trends.  I encourage you to take a moment to check your voter registration status to be sure you are properly registered, and ask that you take time either in advance or on Election Day to cast your vote. 

You should receive a postcard from the Johnson County Election Office soon alerting you to your polling place on Tuesday, Nov. 4.  If you decide to cast a vote early, you can do so by applying for an advance ballot by mail (as mentioned above), or simply head over to the Northeast Johnson County office at 6000 Lamar in Mission to vote in advance in person October 20 – November 3.

Register to Vote

Vote by Mail in Advance

Thank you very much for your continued support.  Being a member of the Kansas Legislature has been a very gratifying experience.  While there is no doubt that it can be frustrating at times, working with colleagues - regardless of party affiliation - who share my passion for quality schools and sound economic policy gives me reason to be hopeful.  You provide me with the inspiration to continue fighting – and ultimately, that makes it all worthwhile.  As always, please contact me with your comments or concerns.  I enjoy representing you and welcome your input.