Roth will challenge Helmer

Roth said his platform will focus on the economy, taxes, affordable housing and education, among other issues.

If elected, Roth said that may provide opportunities for him to work in Topeka to help bring business opportunities to the district.

The cost of living seems to be a problem for many, Roth said, and is something he would like to address if elected.

Roth said he would have to take a closer look at Medicaid expansion before taking a stance on the issue. He also said he would need more information about the Value Them Both statewide amendment, which will be on the Aug. 2 primary election ballot, before making a decision on that issue.

“I want to make good, educated decisions for District 79,” Roth said.

Roth said he is in the process of putting together a plan for campaign events in Oxford, Belle Plaine, Udall and Winfield.

Roth, who has lived in Winfield for 41 years, said running for political office is something he’s always wanted to do. The decision to run now doesn’t have anything to do with Helmer’s performance, whom Roth thinks is doing a good job.

“There’s never a good time to run against someone,” Roth said. He previously ran for Winfield City Commission a few times, but said this is his first time running for a state office.

Helmer has also filed for re-election. Helmer was first elected to the House in 2018. No Democrats have filed so far.

The filing deadline is June 1. The primary election is Aug. 2. The general election is Nov. 8.