Presidential Preferences - Food & Farm Members Speak
On Sunday, July 21st, President Joe Biden took the historic and selfless step of walking away from the Democratic nomination for re-election.
In the immediate aftermath, the Food and Farm Caucus of Kansas Democrats sent a note to over 90 members and affiliated allies with a simple request, "Tell us who you wish to see for President and Vice President --- Be Heard"
Of that group, 13 responded over a 3 day period with preferences and insights. With this informal poll closed as of Wednesday evening, July 24, we share the results.
Kamala Harris was the enthusiastic first choice of the vast majority respondents (10 of 13). In this, the members of the Food and Farm Caucus tracked closely with the national conversation which coalesced quickly to support Harris. As of Monday evening, Kamala Harris had locked up pledges of support from delegates across the nation sufficient to be named the presumptive nominee.
On Tuesday, July 23rd, KDP Chair Repass announced that the Kansas Delegates had voted unanimously to pledge their votes to Kamala Harris.
Of the remaining respondents, one was newly converted to the Harris bid as of Monday morning. Another stated a first choice preference for Marianne Williamson, but was excited about getting behind Harris now that the choice is clear. The remaining member did not state a preference but said it should be decided by open convention with ranked-choice voting.
On the topic of the Vice Presidency, most members skipped a mention of the VP or framed their comment in the spirit of suggestion - placing faith in Harris to chose her running mate. Mark Kelly of Arizona was mentioned 3 times, while Gretchen Whitmer, James Clyburn, Jon Ossof, Pete Buttigieg, Andy Beshears, and Tim Walz were each mentioned once.
Finally, this request for feedback produced additional comments about the state of the Presidential race, national policy and Democratic unity, as follows:
Pleased and thankful that our state delegation has agreed to support Harris. She is the the clear choice
At this late juncture the last thing we needed was a divisive argument over who the nominee would be.
We need to unify and pull together to get Vice President Harris across the finish line. She possesses all of the qualities needed to be great leader for our country.
We must be united in our choice for President. Harris will work as hard ... for all the people.
I feel that vice president Harris is an excellent candidate … hope all Democrats will back her.
Kamala can use the $90 million funds for the general since it's her name on the ticket.
Splendid in so many admirable ways - strong, articulate, vigorous and a prosecutor and a Woman.
Make America Sane Again.
Concerned about Gaza and US policy.
Harris/ Buttigieg is my dream ticket! …They represent women, POC, and LGBTQ - the groups who have suffered the most under R policies including Project 2025.
Gives me hope to see those most affected leading the fight!
Gung-ho for Harris.
Of course this is not a scientific survey, but Democracy hinges on the willingness of people to raise their voice and make a choice. We appreciate our members and allies for opinions and thoughts shared.
Submitted for consideration.
Food and Farm Caucus, 7/24/24