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Bill

HCR 5027

Proposing to amend article 1 of the constitution of the state of Kansas by adding a new section establishing a system of electing the governor and the lieutenant governor by creating a state electoral college whereby each state senatorial district would have a vote in selection of the governor and the lieutenant governor.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Proposed Kansas constitutional amendment replacing popular vote gubernatorial elections with state senatorial district-based electoral college system.

Died in Committee
#constitutionalamendments(kansas) #elections #governor #resolutions
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Bill Summary · HCR 5027

Legislative bill overview

HCR 5027 proposes a constitutional amendment that would replace Kansas's current statewide popular vote system for electing governor and lieutenant governor with a state-level electoral college. Under this system, each of Kansas's 40 state senatorial districts would cast one vote for these offices, rather than the current method where all voters statewide directly elect the governor.

Why is this important

This change would fundamentally alter how Kansans elect their chief executives. Currently, the candidate with the most votes statewide wins; under this proposal, a candidate could win by securing a majority of senatorial district votes—potentially with fewer total votes than their opponent. This mirrors the federal Electoral College but applies it within a single state, which would significantly reshape campaign strategy and representation.

Potential points of contention

  • Rural vs. urban representation: The amendment could amplify rural influence by giving each senatorial district equal weight regardless of population, disadvantaging densely populated urban areas where most Kansans live
  • Democratic representation concerns: A candidate could theoretically win with 21 districts (51%) while losing the statewide popular vote by a substantial margin, raising questions about whether this reflects voter intent
  • Constitutional precedent: Kansas currently uses popular vote elections for statewide office; changing this requires voter approval and represents a significant departure from established democratic practice in the state

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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