Hutchins won't seek re-election to Kansas House seat

Republican Becky Hutchins, who represents the 61st District in the Kansas House of Representatives, has announced that she will not seek re-election.

“First, let me say how much I have appreciated your support these past two years,” Hutchins said in a press release. “These have been challenging years, and I have made many difficult votes. It was a tough decision not to seek re-election, but there are several reason why I have come to this conclusion.”

Hutchins was elected to the House in the fall of 2014, representing the 61st District, which includes most of Jackson and Pottawatomie counties. She replaced Richard Carlson, who had retired.

Hutchins also served as the state representative for the county (which was the 50th District) for 12 years, from 1994 to 2006. She and her husband, Dr. Joel Hutchins, live in Holton.

“When I filed for this office in 2014, I told those who asked me to run that I would run for one term. That would give them two years to find a replacement,” Hutchins said. “I told them that, in two years, I would have my bags packed, and I was going home. I am keeping my word.”

Prior to the 2014 election, Hutchins was retired and enjoyed helping her two adult daughters and their children when needed.

“Joel and I have a new grandson,” she said. “Soren Joel is a blessing that has been hoped and prayed for for many years. I want to be a part of his life and spend as much time with him as possible. Hopefully, he will remember his grandpa and grandma Hutchins as more than a photograph of two old people in a family album. Being grandma is one of the most important jobs I have, and it takes top priority.”

She said that she and Dr. Hutchins have run seven campaigns throughout the years.

“We are tired of campaigning,” she said. “Joel is my biggest supporter, but he is finding it increasingly difficult to drive metal fence posts into dry Kansas ground. I will not ask him to do it for me again.”

Hutchins said that the couple is also planning a trip to China this fall that would take them away from the campaign trail if she ran.

“I would like to state my sincere appreciation for the support and the well wishes that have been expressed to me and my family while I served in office,” she said. “I will be your elected official until my replacement is sworn in next January.”

Hutchins’ seat will be included in the Nov. 8 general election. So far, Republican Dan Brenner of Holton is the only candidate who has filed for the seat. Brenner serves on the Holton City Commission and has owned and operated Diamond by Design of Topeka for 15 years.

Candidates have until noon on June 1 to file for the general election.