The Democratic primary for Kansas House District 89 will likely determine who represents the district in Topeka next year, as no Republican has filed for the seat.
Candidates Jalon Britton and Carol Brewer are seeking to succeed Rep. KC Ohaebosim, who is leaving the Legislature to run for lieutenant governor on the ticket with Cindy Holscher. Both candidates have previously run for the Kansas Legislature in other districts.
House District 89 covers much of northeast Wichita, generally bounded by I-135 on the west, 53rd Street on the north, Woodlawn Boulevard on the east and 21st Street on the south. on the southern border the district extends to pick up the Wichita State University campus and portions and goes south between Oliver and Woodlawn to 13th Street. There is also a small bump out to the east a couple of blocks between 21st and 29th streets.
Because the Democratic primary is expected to decide the district’s next representative, voters who want a voice in choosing the next lawmaker for District 89 should make plans to vote in the August 4 primary.
Carol Brewer
Age: 50
Position: Business owner
Education: Bachelor’s in social work, currently working on master’s with concentration in trauma
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I’ve spent my life serving, helping families, seniors, veterans, and foster youth navigate housing, healthcare, and education challenges. My vision is stronger families, safer neighborhoods, and greater opportunity. I believe in accessible, accountable government that delivers real results. My priorities are fully funding education, expanding healthcare and mental health services, supporting foster families, promoting affordable housing, and strengthening small businesses. I lead by listening and working together, and I will serve with integrity to help every family thrive.
What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?
Affordability and government accountability are my top priorities. Families are struggling with rising taxes, housing, healthcare, and everyday costs. I will fight for property tax relief, affordable healthcare, support for small businesses, and responsible spending. Kansans deserve a transparent government that is accountable for every taxpayer dollar and focused on improving the lives of the people it serves.
What do you see as the biggest threats to public safety in your district? As a lawmaker, what budget items or legislation would you champion to help your constituents feel safe at home and in their communities?
The biggest threats to public safety in my district are violent crime, the mental health crisis, substance abuse, and the lack of resources for youth and families. I would support funding for community-based mental health services, stronger victim support, violence prevention programs, and partnerships with law enforcement that focus on both accountability and prevention. Safer communities are built by investing in people, strengthening neighborhoods, and addressing the root causes of crime.
What ideas do you have for improving academic success for Kansas K-12 students?
Improving academic success starts with fully funding public education, especially special education, supporting and retaining great teachers, expanding early childhood education, and ensuring every student has access to mental health resources and safe learning environments. I also support strengthening career and technical education so students are prepared for college, careers, or military service after graduation.
Jalon Britton
Age: 32
Education: Bachelor’s of psychology from Wichita State University
Campaign website: Jalonforkansas.com
Why should voters consider you the most qualified candidate? What is your overall vision?
I’m running because I believe our government should work for everyday Kansans, not just those with the loudest voices or deepest pockets. As a father, foster parent, educator, coach, and community leader, I’ve seen the challenges families face firsthand. Those experiences have shaped my commitment to serving others and finding practical solutions. I’m not running to be a career politician. I’m running to fight for strong public schools, affordable healthcare, good-paying jobs, and safer neighborhoods.
What is the top issue for you and your constituents and what would you do to address it?
The top issue I hear about is the rising cost of living. Families are working hard but still struggling to afford groceries, housing, healthcare, childcare, and other everyday necessities. Small businesses are also feeling the strain of rising costs and workforce challenges. I would focus on lowering costs by expanding Medicaid, investing in small businesses, supporting good-paying jobs, protecting and strengthening public education, and increasing access to affordable housing.
What do you see as the biggest threats to public safety in your district? As a lawmaker, what budget items or legislation would you champion to help your constituents feel safe at home and in their communities?
When I talk to voters, they care about both crime and the safety of their neighborhoods. One issue I’ve heard repeatedly is the construction on Woodlawn and in Bel Aire pushing heavy traffic into residential neighborhoods. I’ve stood with neighbors who showed me how speeding and cut-through traffic make it difficult to back out of their driveway for nearly 30 minutes during the evening. Parents are especially concerned because children are playing outside and will be getting on and off school buses soon.
What ideas do you have for improving academic success for Kansas K-12 students?
My priorities are fully funding our public schools, strengthening early childhood education, expanding career and technical education, and ensuring every student has access to the support they need to succeed. We should also invest in recruiting and retaining great teachers, reduce class sizes where possible, and partner more closely with parents and local businesses to prepare students for life after graduation. Strong schools create stronger communities and a stronger Kansas.
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