Pleas from former Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and others thrust Laura Kelly into this year's governor's race, where opponents in a three-way fight were outgunned by a woman regarded for her competitive spirit, analytical approach and knack for building coalitions of support.

The Kansas Supreme Court announced plans last week to provide 1,600 employees of the judicial branch with up to six weeks of paid parental leave after the birth or adoption of a child.

Democrats in Shawnee County completed the musical chairs portion of the 2018 election cycle last week by selecting a former Kansas Department of Revenue employee to fill a vacant House seat.