Nikki McDonald

Nikki McDonald was born in Little Rock, Arkansas. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas in 1997 and a graduate degree from the University of Arkansas in 1998. Her career experience includes working as a consultant. She previously worked as a teacher and as founder, executive director, and president of the Olathe Public Education Network.[2]

McDonald has been affiliated with the following organizations:[3]

Project 10/20 Emergency Homeless Shelter

Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church

Johnson County Mental Health Advisory Board

At large-member of Olathe NW Engineering Academy Booster Club

Kansas City Modern Quilt Guild

Greater Kansas City Orchid Society

PSN Olathe Knitting Group

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1997 with a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and in 1998 with a Masters in the Art of Teaching with an emphasis in Early Childhood Development. I moved from NW Arkansas to Kansas House District 49 in 2003 with my husband, Patrick. After teaching first grade and English Language Learners (ELL) in Arkansas, I obtained a teaching position in Olathe working with elementary ELL students at Fairview Elementary. In 2005, I pressed pause on my career to begin a family. Our two sons have attended Olathe Public Schools since their early childhood years and are currently students at Olathe Northwest High School. I've spent the past 7 years becoming more involved with community organizing and public education advocacy work. In my spare time, I've worked to help elect others who share my values. When my representative in the KS House stepped down, I was chosen by my fellow precinct leaders to fill the vacancy. I am running as an incumbent for the 2024 election season as I complete the second half of this 2023/24 term. I believe firmly that we should all strive to grow where we are planted and make our community a better place. I am happy to do my part to ensure that we continue to enjoy living in a safe area with exceptional public schools and economic opportunities for us all.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

As a former teacher, special needs parent, public education advocate and community organizer, I will be a voice in Topeka advocating for our strong public schools.I have a strong commitment to work to improve access to quality mental health resources for our residents of all ages.It is imperative that we find solutions for rising property taxes. Too many residents are being priced out of their homes & this is unacceptable.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

My area of greatest knowledge and interest is public school education policy. It's clear that strong public schools drive strong local economies. Our local public schools are exemplary & I will always advocate on their behalf.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Governor Laura Kelly is a great role model for finding common ground & governing in a pragmatic way. I hope to emulate her methods of reaching across the aisle to find solutions that improve the lives of everyday Kansans.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

N/A

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am curious, tenacious, driven, empathetic and hard-working.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

It is vitally important that a representative understand the will of the voters in their district. I have knocked MANY doors each cycle in House District 49 over the past several years & I have a unique insight into the priorities of my constituents. It falls to me to vote in a way that best reflects their wishes.

What legacy would you like to leave?

A legacy of kindness and compassion.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

N/A

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

N/A

What is your favorite book? Why?

I enjoy books written by David Seders because of his lighthearted approach to writing memoirs about his life.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Nothing comes to mind

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Nothing comes to mind.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

During college I was a nontraditional student. Taking on full-time classes & several part-time jobs was difficult, but I stayed with it and eventually my hard work paid off.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

I appreciate that US Representatives come from all types of professions & walks of life, each bringing with them their own knowledge and experiences.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

No. I think government should be "of the people". Previous experience should not be required.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Tribalism/Extremism

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

No. I believe it takes some time to learn the processes involved in governing and creating laws.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I am open to the argument for a need to have term limits.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Again, Governor Laura Kelly is inspirational & has led Kansas through difficult times with skill and compassion.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I've met with constituents who have worked in various areas of service to the public, from veterans to law enforcement officers, firemen, teachers, nurses, doctors and more. Their willingness to sacrifice to make our community a better place is always touching.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Nothing comes to mind

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes, both necessary and desirable.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

A budget is a reflection of our priorities. I would make sure that our budget actually prioritizes funding the things that matter most to our community. As a representative, I take this responsibility very seriously.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

My focus primarily has been on local and state government. To a limited degree I understand that the US House has subpoena and investigative powers. However, as an elected official in STATE government, this question really does not impact my work.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

N/A