On February 3, 2026, I interviewed Sherry Giebler, a candidate for Kansas House District 14, that covers s portion of Olathe. Our conversation covered state policy, representation, and voter issues.The discussion began with Giebler’s background and economic experience. Giebler recounted working multiple jobs to finance her education and later dedicating over three decades to public education and counseling. She explained that her decision to run for office stemmed from a perceived disconnect between legislative priorities and constituent concerns.Throughout the interview, education emerged as a central theme. Drawing upon her experience as a public school counselor and therapist, Giebler stressed the importance of supporting public education systems, characterizing schools as a primary point of contact between families and the tangible effects of state policy decisions.Property taxes were identified as a prevalent concern among voters. The discussion explored the tension between providing tax relief and maintaining adequate funding for essential public services.Healthcare and mental health access constituted another significant topic. Giebler voiced her support for Medicaid expansion as a potential means of stabilizing rural hospitals and broadening access to mental health services.The conversation also touched upon social safety net programs, including SNAP benefits and childcare assistance. Giebler asserted that public perception of these programs is often shaped by misinformation, emphasizing their crucial role in supporting working families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.Public safety policy prompted a detailed discussion about policing, accountability, and crisis response. The conversation emphasized de-escalation tactics and the idea that different community situations may necessitate different types of responders.Additional topics included gun policy, reproductive healthcare, and recent legislation impacting marginalized communities. Giebler affirmed her support for upholding abortion protections as affirmed by Kansas voters and highlighted the importance of public input in policymaking.Future episodes will break this conversation into individual topic segments.Learn more about Kansas House District 14, including the most recent campaign finance analysis in my Kansas House section.
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