Thank you for visiting the campaign web site of Representative Ray Merrick, the Majority Leader of the Kansas House of Representatives.
 

Practical Solutions. | Trusted Advocate. | Proven Leadership.

Practical Solutions

There is a lot of talk in politics. We have all heard big promises from leaders and elected officials, but how often do they deliver? It is my goal and daily endeavor to evaluate issues in our State of Kansas with common sense. Some ideas sound great, but are they feasible to the taxpayer, to our businesses, to the people of this state?

In Topeka I have consistently fought for realistic solutions that make commonsense policy and get well thought-out results. Whether it is fighting for reimbursement from SRS for moneys owed constituents or working to protect your personal property rights, I believe in seeking realistic answers that show results. The last thing we need is a state government making more short-sighted decisions that come back to hurt us all.

Trusted Advocate

As the representative for the 27th District, you have entrusted me with your greatest community concerns. I take that trust to heart and believe my number one priority in the Kansas Legislature is to advocate your views and concerns to the People’s House.

 
Public Safety Advocate

For years I have joined my Republican colleagues in the House to fight for tougher restrictions on sexual predators. Our efforts have been stopped every year. This year, we are starting to see the support necessary to get these restrictions in place. I am hopeful that we will get to vote on Jessica’s Law, a law to place electronic tracking devices on sexual predators and require sticter prison sentences. I will continue to be an advocate for the safety of our communities and be as tough as we can on those who would prey on our children.

 Education Advocate

I have been committed to protecting Blue Valley and Olathe school districts and believe creating opportunities in our children’s schools is an investment in our future and a testimony of our hard work and dedication. As we work to reform our education finance model with more accountability and better results, I know my first responsibility is to our students in these districts.

Stilwell Elementary Principle Pam DeVuyst and Rep. Ray Merrick.

 Taxpayer & Business Advocate

I have also been committed to advocating responsible government and protecting our tax dollars. I will continue to stand up for an elimination of the double taxes we face in Kansas such as the inheritance tax, the franchise tax, and state income tax on our federal income tax burden. I am dedicated to strengthening the business environment in Kansas and bringing critical economic development to our state.


Dr. Joseph Wu and Ray in Taipei on a 2005 trade mission to Taiwan. 

Proven Leadership

As a former Vice President and General Manager of a leading food service company, I have learned what it takes to not just get things done, but lead in the process. After serving just one term in the Legislature I was elected Assistant Majority Leader for the House, and in 2004 I was elected Speaker Pro Tem of the House. As a graduate of the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development and other legislative leadership organizations, I know what it takes to cut through the bureaucracy in Topeka. I take my position seriously and have found it to be a great asset for the interests of my constituents in the 27th District. As House Majority Leader I have more leverage to negotiate the people of the 27th District’s concerns and priorities.