LaTurner could be well positioned if he makes Second District run, says Washburn professor

Washburn University political scientist Bob Beatty is interested in whether or not State Treasurer Jake LaTurner will change races from the U.S. Senate to running for the Second District seat in the U.S. House.

“I think the most important thing to come out of the last few days in terms of LaTurner was him not saying, ‘Oh, no, I’m running for Senate, him saying, let me think about it'” said Beatty. “That’s a huge indication that he really is thinking about it and that it’s very possible he will switch to the House race.”

LaTurner is doing something that has been successful in the past to raise his profile.

“LaTurner has Learning Quest ads that are running, some people tell me non-stop on some stations,” said Beatty. “Those ads are featuring him and his family. That’s a really good thing, especially for him, for a Second District race.”

Beatty sees TV as a key in whoever would win a primary race.

“Steve Watkins benefited greatly from massive television advertising,” said Beatty. “Learning Quest ads, I’ve always argued, those helped Lynn Jenkins when she defeated Jim Ryun in a primary and they could very much help LaTurner if he decided to go into the Second District.”

LaTurner’s office is required to promote the 529 savings plan, and no taxpayer funds are used for the ads.