NAVY VETERAN & NATIVE KANSAN, PATRICK SCHMIDT, LAUNCHES CONGRESSIONAL CAMPAIGN
Schmidt is a Former Naval Intelligence Officer, Sixth Generation Kansan, and Son of Public School Teachers
TOPEKA, Kan. — Sixth-generation Kansan and Navy Reservist, Patrick Schmidt, launched his campaign for Congress in Kansas’ Second Congressional District today. Schmidt is seeking to continue his public service in Kansas after recently serving on active duty as a Naval Intelligence Officer.
“I’m worried about our country and our state,” Schmidt said, “Instead of investing in our future and rebuilding our economy, we are divided by partisan bickering. During my service on the USS RONALD REAGAN, I saw firsthand the impact the United States makes in the world when we are strong and united. After the pandemic, we need to build a stronger economy if we want all Kansans to be able to succeed. ”
Schmidt understands the challenges of working Kansans; they are similar today from when he grew up. “Coming from a long line of farmers, coal miners, and teachers, I’ve seen the daily struggles Kansas families face when an unexpected illness or injury shocks the family budget. It’s a financial and emotional earthquake impacting everyone in the family. I watched my parents navigate a broken health care system and struggle to afford high co-pays and deductibles when my father was ill – his condition nearly bankrupted our family,” Schmidt said. “As your Congressman, I will do everything in my power for hard-working Kansas families, to ensure they can thrive in our state.”
Emulating his grandfather’s military service, Schmidt commissioned in the U.S. Navy and served overseas in the Pacific and the Middle East. He recently completed his active duty commitments and remains in the Naval Reserves. “My Kansas roots and values served me well in the Navy. It was an honor to defend this great nation so that we may continue to be a beacon of freedom for the world,” Schmidt said.
Patrick and his wife Megan live in Topeka.