Republican and former Army Capt. Patrick Penn announced a campaign for Kansas’ 85th District House seat.
“With the support of my family, friends and the former representatives of the district, Steve Brunk and Chuck Weber, I am compelled to run for this position to bring integrity and decency back to the people of the 85th District,” said Penn. “I share the values of the district, and my upbringing leads me to challenge those who harm children.”
Raised in foster care, Patrick Penn overcame the tragedy of abuse and neglect to become a proud family man with a distinguished record of service to our country. Growing up, he learned the importance of faith, family, and hard work.
Penn joined the United States Army upon graduating high school, where he served admirably in the war on terror in Iraq and Afghanistan on multiple tours of duty, including Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve. Highly decorated, he received the Meritorious Service Medal and the Combat Action Badge, before retiring at the rank of Captain in 2017.
“My story is a story of overcoming obstacles. I understand that running against an incumbent is a momentous task,” said Penn. “But I am up to the challenge, and with the support of Republicans in the district, we will win.”
While serving his country, Penn graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in criminology and earned his master’s degree in applied information technology from the George Mason University Volgenau School of Engineering.
Continuing his commitment to our nation, Penn put his 20 years of service and education to work for Textron Aviation Defense in Wichita as a program manager, leading the $14.5m T-6 Trainer upgrade project for the Department of Defense.
Penn is a Sunday school teacher and volunteer at Central Christian Church, and his children attend Central Christian Academy.
Patrick Penn is a dedicated husband to Talia, and father to Jaden, Josiah, Amariah, and Gabriella. His family is proud to call Northeast Wichita home.