House Speaker Dan Hawkins restricts media access in a surprising move, raising concerns about transparency in Kansas politics
Before this, reporters could hang out in a small corner of the chamber. Now, they’re stuck in the public gallery, which is a bummer because it limits their ability to cover what’s happening live. They can only take photos from angles that show the back of lawmakers’ heads. Not exactly ideal for reporting, right?
Hawkins’ team hasn’t said much about why they made this change. Emily Bradbury from the Kansas Press Association spoke up, saying that having reporters close to the action helps keep things accurate and transparent. She believes the press plays a crucial role in democracy, acting as a voice for the public.
New House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard was also taken aback by the decision. He emphasized that a free press is essential for democracy and that limiting access to lawmakers is concerning. He thinks reporters should be right there with the lawmakers to keep the public informed.
It’s worth noting that Hawkins and Senate President Ty Masterson have a history of being critical of the media. Last year, Hawkins even blocked a resolution supporting press freedom after a controversial police raid on a local newspaper. He’s made some pretty bold claims about how the press operates, suggesting they don’t give him a fair shake.
Masterson had previously banned reporters from the Senate floor, citing space issues for staff. His spokesperson mentioned that the press area was often taken up by staff members, leaving little room for journalists.
In the end, this new rule has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the importance of media access in government. It seems like a step back for transparency in Kansas politics, and many are hoping for a change in the future.
