Richard Paz

Richard Paz was born in Tacoma, Washington. He served in the U.S. Army from 1987 to 2017. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Washington in 1987, a graduate degree from Texas A&M University in 2001, and a graduate degree from the Fort Leavenworth School for Advanced Military Studies in 2004. He is currently retired. He has been affiliated with Rural Leavenworth, Inc.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

As your candidate for Kansas House District 38, I bring a unique blend of experience and dedication to public service. My 30-year military medical career has equipped me with valuable skills in leadership, strategic planning, and healthcare reform. As a retired Army Medical Service Colonel, I've served in various roles including commander, operations officer, planner, strategist, and educator in both combat and peacetime environments.

My experience extends to assisting with Department of Defense and Army healthcare reform, Army-wide behavioral healthcare planning, and teaching applied planning and decision making at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. This background has given me a deep understanding of complex systems and the ability to find practical solutions to challenging problems. I have witnessed firsthand how accessible and affordable healthcare can transform lives for the better.

My family and I chose to make rural Kansas our home because it embodies the core values of America - where neighbors help one another, and communities come together to support everyone. During my overseas deployments, I experienced firsthand the kindness and support of our local community, and now I'm motivated to give back and help our district thrive in these uncertain times.

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?

We protect freedom by fighting for the economic security and prosperity of ordinary Kansans by lowering property tax and regressive tax burdens.We conserve thriving Kansas communities by making healthcare (to include mental healthcare) and childcare more accessible and affordable. We must approve MEDICAID expansion.We create thriving Kansas communities by promoting new economic development and growth with citizen and expert input working toward common goals.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

1. Property tax reduction and property assessment reform

2. Healthcare and childcare accessibility and affordability

3. State, county, and city revenue sharing

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Important characteristics of an elected official are integrity, commitment to public service, critical thinking skills, the ability to collaborate effectively and to communicate transparently to the public.

Elected officials must possess the courage to make difficult decisions, to work with constituents, and a deep understanding of the issues affecting their district and state. Transparency and accountability in all actions and decisions are also crucial.

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

As a state legislator, the core responsibilities include creating, debating, and voting on legislation that makes new laws or amends existing statutes. This involves working collaboratively with other legislators to find compromises that represent the best interests of the majority while respecting the rights of all.

Legislators must do their utmost to keep their constituencies informed and aware of forthcoming legislation and their impacts on their districts and communities.

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

President Richard Nixon's resignation on national TV. I was 10 years old at the time.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The relationship between the governor and state legislature should be one of constructive collaboration and mutual respect, while maintaining the necessary checks and balances. The legislature should work to craft and pass laws that benefit the state, while the governor provides leadership, proposes budgets, and has the power to sign or veto legislation. This relationship should be characterized by open communication and a shared commitment to serving the public good.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

(1) Lowering the tax burden on ordinary Kansans.

(2) Improving access to affordable, quality healthcare and childcare.

(3) Ensuring economic growth and stability, particularly in rural areas.

(4) Fully funding public education.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

While previous experience in government or politics can be valuable, I believe that varied experiences can greatly benefit the legislative process. The problem with the current legislative supermajority is their capture by special interests. The longer the super majority's legislative tenure the more detached "experienced" their legislators become to the public interest.

My 30-year military career has equipped me with leadership skills, strategic thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of public service that I believe will be highly beneficial in the role of state legislator.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Building relationships with other legislators is not just beneficial, but essential for effective governance. My experience in the military has taught me value of teamwork and collaboration, especially when tackling complex challenges.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Kansas AFL-CIO; Kansas National Education Association (KNEA); Mental Health Now

What committees interest you?

Taxation; Appropriations; Health and Human Services; Child Welfare and Foster Care; Federal and State Affairs; Special Committee on Taxation; Joint Committee on Pensions, Investments and Benefits; Veterans and Military

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental to good governance. Elected officials must be accountable to the public they serve. Financial and legal compliance audits, as well as performance audits, in accordance with state laws and regulations are essential to maintain public trust and ensure efficient use of resources