From The Newsroom: The Topeka Capital-Journal

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 144: Phone Ban and Republican Rebellion

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:24:43 +0000

March Madness is upon us, and not just the basketball kind. A Republican rebellion against House leadership brought the chamber to a halt at a busy time of the legislative session. Meanwhile, the bipartisan ban on student cell phones in schools was signed into law.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 143: Property Taxes and Budget Deficits

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:02:01 +0000

With two weeks left in the regular legislative session, Kansas lawmakers have little time to fulfill their campaign promises of property tax relief. Meanwhile, they're also facing significant deficits and are struggling to cut spending enough to balance the budget.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 142: Bathrooms and Gender Markers

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 23:42:16 +0000

It's been a busy first half of the Kansas legislative session, and even more busy when the Chillin' team also has to cover some happenings outside the Legislature. Then add in some technical difficulties that we hope have been straightened out. Regardless, we're back and ready to talk about the biggest legislative accomplishment so far this year: an anti-transgender bathroom bill that also bans gender marker changes for state identification.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 141: A Farewell to Jack

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:43:13 +0000

Has it been two weeks or two months? The Kansas 2026 legislative session is off to a fast and busy start. The Chillin' team brings you an update on the first two weeks and says a farewell to Jack, who is leaving to cover Missouri government and politics.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 140: A Busy First Week

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 20:46:45 +0000

With lawmakers returning to the capital city, it was a busy week at the Kansas Statehouse in Topeka. The Chillin' team recaps the first week of the 2026 legislative session, including Gov. Laura Kelly's last State of the State address, Kansas Supreme Court oral arguments and more.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 139: Chiefs Recap and Kansas Session Preview

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 23:23:55 +0000

The Chillin' team is back, just in time for lawmakers to return to the capital city. The Kansas Legislature's 2026 session starts Jan. 12, and we've got a preview of the biggest items to watch. Also, we've got a recap of the state's subsidy deal for the Kansas City Chiefs to move from Missouri to Kansas.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 138: All Kansas Wants for Christmas is the Chiefs?

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:47:45 +0000

The Kansas City Chiefs won't make the NFL playoffs this year, but the football team could make a big decision about the future of its stadium. The Chiefs are expected to propose a deal to a group of top Kansas lawmakers for taxpayer subsidies to help build a new stadium on the Kansas side of the metro. The Royals are not expected to have a proposal.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 137: Talking Turkey

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:34:56 +0000

Just in time for your Thanksgiving road trip, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team has another episode. We talk about about Gov. Laura Kelly's lawsuit against Attorney General Kris Kobach, Kobach's charges alleging noncitizen illegal voting, a child care grant by the Kelly administration, and Kansas turkey hunting records.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 136: Waiting Until January

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 23:10:28 +0000

Republicans in the Kansas Legislature failed to get enough petitions to call a redistricting special session in November. That means the debate over gerrymandering the congressional maps will have to wait until January — as will potentially amending Senate Bill 180 to make it explicitly ban gender marker changes on driver's licenses. When lawmakers do return to Topeka, they won't be staring down a looming budget hole, as was previously forecasted.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 135: The Latest on Redistricting and SNAP

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 21:07:08 +0000

The Chillin' in the Statehouse crew is back with another episode on gerrymandering and food stamps. While Senate Republicans have the signatures to call a redistricting special session, House Republicans are not yet there. Meanwhile, it's looking like the federal government shutdown will mean no November SNAP benefits, or at least delayed or partial payments.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 134: Snap, SNAP and Redistricting

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 22:06:42 +0000

The Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back with another episode featuring one Snap lawsuit, another SNAP lawsuit, and the latest developments in gerrymandered redistricting efforts in Kansas.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 133: Kobach v. Kelly on SNAP Data

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 22:45:30 +0000

Attorney General Kris Kobach is suing Gov. Laura Kelly, setting up another legal battle featuring Kobach versus Kelly. This time, it's over SNAP data demanded by the USDA. The Chillin' team breaks it down ahead of a likely court hearing this coming week. We also have news on the Republican rebrand for the One Big Beautiful Bill.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 132: Kicking Off Political Football Season

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 21:58:03 +0000

With K-State and KU playing on Saturday, it's the start to football season. It's also political football season. The Chillin' team has several issues teed up, from gerrymandered redistricting and education cut scores to SNAP data plus candy definitions and DOGE cuts — and even a little Taylor Swift.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 131: One Year Until Primary Election Day

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 19:34:40 +0000

The Aug. 4, 2026, primary election is still a year away, but several candidates have already announced campaigns for statewide office in Kansas. Some races have a large field of candidates, especially in the Republican primary for governor. Others have yet to see a candidate filing, like Democratic primaries for treasurer and insurance commissioner.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 130: A New Fiscal Year

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 22:22:10 +0000

After a short hiatus due to scheduling conflicts and technical difficulties, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back together to start the new fiscal year — just in time for your Fourth of July road trip. While we focus on the animal stories we've been itching to share and some recent green energy political ads, we also acknowledge new Kansas laws going into effect, the One Big Beautiful Bill advancing in Congress, and some developments on the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals stadium subsidy debate.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 129: Screwworms and Legal Updates

Wed, 28 May 2025 19:59:00 +0000

Even with the Legislature adjourned, it's been a busy month of May in the Statehouse — and especially in courthouses. The Chillin' team has an update on legal affairs from a multitude of cases, as well as a story we've been itching to share about screwworms.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 128: Money Problems

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 23:00:43 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse is back to talk about revenue estimates, government spending, a looming budget hole, and what lawmakers did about tax cut promises.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 127: Judicial Selection and Wisconsin Election

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 14:45:16 +0000

In August 2026, Kansas voters will decide whether to amend the state Constitution on how Supreme Court justices are selected. If the Republican-backed amendment is approved, justices will be directly elected, like in Wisconsin where a high-profile election brought big spending with contributions from billionaires like Elon Musk and George Soros.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 126: Christians v. Satanists

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 14:27:19 +0000

March was a busy month at the Kansas Statehouse, and while a lot happened, what ate up much of the attention was a planned black mass by Satanists and a counter-rally by Christians. Here's what went down.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 125: On Outbursts and Abrupt Endings

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse takes a break from our regularly scheduled chill to bring you the stories of three not-so-chill moments in Kansas politics. From an outburst on the House floor that shut down the chamber, to a Senate committee abruptly ending when a speaker tried to go past the time limit, to a U.S. senator being booed as he walked out of a contentious town hall, we break down the events that made the news and their underlying policy issues.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 124: Turnaround and the First New Law of 2025

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Despite another snowstorm, the Kansas Legislature has reached turnaround, the midpoint of the legislative session. The House and Senate passed dozens of bills to send to the other chamber, and we've got a sampling of them for you. Meanwhile, the Legislature also enacted the first new law of 2025 by overriding the governor's veto.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 123: Grammys, Chiefs & Politics, Oh My!

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 23:39:33 +0000

It's been a busy past two weeks for the Chillin' in the Statehouse team. There was the tragic plane crash of a flight out of Wichita, the passage of a bill on gender-affirming care, multiple rallies — including for school choice and the march for life, a new mural, tax policy proposals, USAID impacts on Kansas, and more. And don't forget about the Grammys and the Chiefs!

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 122: Trump's First Week, Kansas Legislature's Second

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 23:41:16 +0000

It was the first week of President Donald Trump's administration, the second week of the Kansas legislative session and the third week of snow covering the ground in Topeka. The Chillin' in the Statehouse team recaps a mix of news this week, including lawmakers responding to Trump's executive orders, the Kansas House getting rid of the midnight rule, and a history lesson on chaos in state legislatures.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 121: The First Week of Session

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 20:44:05 +0000

The Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back to recap the first week of the 2025 legislative session and what was said during the governor's State of the State address, by Republican leadership afterward, and by Democratic leadership at a press conference.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 120: First Day of Session 2025

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 23:40:45 +0000

Here at the Kansas Statehouse it's the first day of the 2025 legislative session, and we've got a legislative preview for our listeners.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 119: Christmastime Interviews

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:30:00 +0000

With the holidays coming up, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team brings you one last episode of 2024. We're fresh off interviews for 2025 session preview stories, and so for our Christmas present to our loyal listeners, we have a few sneak peeks into what we're working on.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 118: Kansas Legislature Wrapped

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 22:37:09 +0000

Spotify Wrapped is out with our top music listens of the year, and Chillin' in the Statehouse is bringing you #ksleg wrapped, recapping the top narratives from Kansas government and politics in 2024.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 117: Post-Election Thanksgiving

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 21:45:14 +0000

Kansas Republicans won big in the 2024 elections, growing their supermajorities in the Legislature and winning a conservative majority on the State Board of Education. Just in time for Thanksgiving travels, the podcast team of Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel with The Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press break down the election results.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 116: In Our Election Era

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:39:17 +0000

We're only a handful of days away from Election Day 2024, and the Chillin' in the Statehouse team has an election preview. Two of the biggest Kansas politics narratives going in are whether Democrats can break the Republican supermajorities in the Kansas Legislature, and whether conservatives can win a majority on the Kansas State Board of Education.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 115: On That Viral KU Video

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:02:26 +0000

It was supposed to be a busy week of covering meetings of multiple legislative committees and the state board of education, but things got less chill for Chillin' in the Statehouse on Wednesday when a video of a University of Kansas instructor went viral. The instructor's classroom comments suggesting political violence were quickly condemned by top Kansas politicians, and while recording this podcast, we got the news that the instructor has left KU after teaching there for 40 years.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 114: Why The Budget May End Fridays Off

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 18:54:29 +0000

As the executive branch works through budget requests before the Democratic governor puts together her budget proposal, the Republican-led legislative branch is planning to take more ownership of the budget process. The Chillin' in the Statehouse team dives into the motivations, politics and potential impacts of the move — including a possible end to lawmakers taking Fridays off.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 113: Abortion, Elections and Foster Care

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 22:34:23 +0000

The Chillin' in the Statehouse team is back with more news on abortion and its connection to elections, some concerns about delivery of election mail, plus suspicious packages sent to the state's top election official, and concerns with continued struggles in the Kansas foster care system.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 112: Elections and Ethics

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 19:52:56 +0000

It's the start of another football season, but it's also election season. The Chillin' in the Statehouse team has the scoop on top targets for Democrats and Republicans in trying to break versus hold on to the legislative supermajorities. There are also some updates in the ethics investigation of Kansas Republicans involving campaign finance allegations, and there were some ethical accusation made by a recently deceased former Commerce Department official.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 111: Goin' Back to Court

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 18:06:06 +0000

Stepping outside the Kansas Statehouse and into courthouses, the Chillin' in the Statehouse team brings you up to date on various legal cases touching on government and politics.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 110: The Post-Primary Chill

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 21:25:56 +0000

The temperatures seem to have cooled off in the past week. Is it because primary election season is over? Well, Chillin' in the Statehouse is here to break down the highlights of an election that coincided with the Olympics — though maybe our performance is more deserving of a bronze than gold.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 109: The One About Not-So-Chill Politics

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Government and politics news hasn't been very chill the last couple of weeks, but the Chillin' in the Statehouse team is here to discuss an assassination attempt, a presidential candidate dropping out, the Kansas delegation endorsing the vice president and the governor's PAC opposing the House Democratic leader — plus some toll road and bike lane news.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 108: Courthouse Chillin'

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:11:25 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse takes you to the courthouse for an update on several legal cases. From the Kansas Supreme Court reaffirming its landmark abortion ruling to U.S. District Court cases affecting gun shows, student loans and transgenders students, The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel and the Associated Press' John Hanna have you covered.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 107: A Very Special Special Session

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 22:13:30 +0000

In a one-day special session, the Kansas Legislature passed a substantial tax cut compromise and an incentive package designed to entice the Kansas City Chiefs or Royals to move from Missouri to Kansas. Gov. Laura Kelly has already signed both into law.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 106: Can Special Session Score Tax Cuts and Chiefs?

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:00:00 +0000

With two members of the Chillin' in the Statehouse team back from well-earned vacations, we're ready for the long awaited special session. Tax cuts are the stated priority for politicians, but there is a major lobbying effort underway for lawmakers to enact a subsidy package designed to lure the Kansas City Chiefs (or the Royals) to move from Missouri to Kansas.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 105: The Chill and the Chili

Mon, 20 May 2024 17:07:55 +0000

It's pretty chill here at the Kansas Statehouse, but we know it's going to get busy again when Gov. Laura Kelly calls a special session on tax cuts. Is there room for compromise between the governor and Legislature, the House and Senate, and Republicans and Democrats? Can Kelly get House Democrats on the same page as her, or was a Democratic meeting at a Topeka chili parlor a reflection of internal party politics? Is communication clear, or is there room for different interpretations, like Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker's comments?

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 104: Tornado Sirens and End of Session

Mon, 06 May 2024 19:58:06 +0000

Session is over! Or is it? Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel of The Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press recap a busy veto session — where a tornado warning interrupted the last day of the Kansas legislative session as lawmakers tried another go at cutting taxes, but didn't take up a plan designed to lure the Kansas City Chiefs to move to Kansas. Both of those issues could come back up during a likely special session.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 103: More Vetoes Before Veto Session

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:37:04 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse is ready for veto session, when Kansas lawmakers return to Topeka to consider overriding Gov. Laura Kelly's vetoes and wrap up unfinished business — and there's a lot of vetoes and unfinished business for legislators to get done in a short amount of time.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 102: Tortured Reporters Department

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 18:51:56 +0000

With a nod to Taylor Swift's new era, The Tortured Poets Department, Chillin' in the Statehouse brings you The Tortured Reporters Department. The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel are joined by the Associated Press' John Hanna as they run down the highlights of the first batches of bill signings and vetoes during the Legislature's April break.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 101: Total Eclipse of the Legislature

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 21:44:46 +0000

On this eclipse day, there is a mixture of sunlight and darkness, kind of like how the Kansas Legislature worked late into the night on its last day of regular session. The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and the Associated Press' John Hanna recap three of the biggest issues (state budget, school budget and tax cuts) from drop dead day — or more like drop dead night, considering what time the House and Senate adjourned for their April break.

To read more: https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/politics/government/2024/04/08/kansas-lawmakers-pass-tax-cuts-but-not-school-budget-before-adjourning/73243055007/

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 100: The One Where Andrew Returns

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 21:51:32 +0000

For episode 100 of Chillin' in the Statehouse, we have the return of Andrew Bahl, one of the first hosts and producers of the podcast. He joins The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel and the Associated Press' John Hanna to discuss the latest on the Kansas Legislature and so-called drop dead day, plus a little Wisconsin politics.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 99: It's Gettin' Hot in Here

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 15:57:23 +0000

We may be chill, but the Legislature is heating up with some hot-button issues in the second half of session. The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel are joined by the Associated Press' John Hanna as they discuss abortion, gender affirming care, election security, TikTok and more.

Talking with Washburn Law's newest dean

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 20:19:51 +0000

Topeka Capital-Journal reporter Stacey Saldanha-Olson sits down with Washburn University's newest dean of law Jeffrey Jackson.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 98: Jack's First Turnaround and Call of the House

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:34:16 +0000

The Chillin' in the Statehouse team breaks down the happenin's of turnaround week, including a call of the House during the failed veto override attempt of the Republican tax cut plan. The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press, who discusses fetal personhood legislation in Kansas in light of an Alabama court ruling on IVF.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 97: Death, Taxes, and Uncertainty

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 23:59:19 +0000

Death and taxes are the two certainties in life, right? Well they're maybe not so certain, at least in the Kansas Legislature. Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel of The Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press talk through the uncertainties of the veto override effort for the flat income tax plan and the uncertainties of the state death penalty law.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 96: The One For Your Big Game Hangover

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 18:32:45 +0000

The Chiefs winning the big game Sunday night meant a slower, chiller Monday morning at the Kansas Statehouse, leaving the Chillin' team with time to record a podcast for the first time in three weeks. Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel of The Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press recap some of the top issues in Kansas government and politics.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 95: Putting the Chill in Chillin'

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 23:54:31 +0000

It's chilly here at Chillin' in the Statehouse, but we've got you covered on happenin's from the first two weeks of the 2024 legislative session. A State of the State, the budget, a court hearing and a big tax cut bill that the governor has promised to veto. The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel are joined by the Associated Press' John Hanna to break it all down.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 94: New Year, New Session, Same Politics

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year from the team at Chillin' in the Statehouse! The start of 2024 also brings the start of a new legislative session. But a new year and new session come with the same old political issues.

The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and Jack Harvel plus the Associated Press' John Hanna preview the top issues to watch — which will feel quite similar to the top issues of the past year.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 93: Welcome Jack, Goodbye New License Plates

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 22:39:42 +0000

Welcome back to Chillin' in the Statehouse! We're back to a full team with the addition of Jack Harvel to The Topeka Capital-Journal's Statehouse team. He joins the CJ's Jason Alatidd and John Hanna of the Associated Press as they discuss the short-lived new license plate design.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 92: Turkeys, Stuffing and Gobbling up Property Taxes

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 22:03:27 +0000

It's Thanksgiving week, and Chillin' in the Statehouse has the podcast to help you pass any extra time during your holidays. Jason Alatidd of The Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press get in the fall spirit — which includes the newly mailed fall property tax bill — as they break down legislative proposals for property tax relief from House Republican and Democratic leaders.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 91: A Sunflower SPED Showdown

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 18:40:23 +0000

It's rivalry week here at Chillin' in the Statehouse, as Jason Alatidd's Wildcats take on John Hanna's Jayhawks. Amid the Sunflower Showdown, advocates for more special education funding were in a showdown of their own with top Republican legislators over calling a task force meeting. It's one of many education topics that will be debated in the coming legislative session.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 90: Courts, Coffee and Candy

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 22:37:22 +0000

John Hanna brought the leftover Halloween candy, Jason Alatidd had coffee in a Christmas cup, Mother Nature brought the cold, and here is another episode of Chillin' in the Statehouse. Courts, courts and more courts are the topic of discussion today, spanning abortion laws, voter rights, IT security, difficulty getting documents and the IRS — plus the start of basketball season.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode (19)89: Our Legislative Pay Era (Taylor's Version)

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 22:27:19 +0000

After a "Cruel Summer," fall is here! That means Chiefs football, mixed with Taylor Swift appearances. Will voters "Shake It Off" when lawmakers say "Don't Blame Me" for any "Bad Blood" from giving the "Anti-Hero" Legislative Compensation Commission a "Blank Space" in the checkbook for legislative pay raises of their "Wildest Dreams"? The Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd and the Associated Press' John Hanna discuss.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 88: We're back!

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 21:26:55 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse is back! For the first time since the departure of Andrew Bahl, the former host and producer of this award-winning podcast, Jason Alatidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal is joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press with updates on three major news stories from the past two months of Kansas government and politics. They discuss DCF and the Zoey Felix case, more Marion updates and Attorney General Kris Kobach's loss in the natural gas price gouging lawsuit.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 87: So long, farewell (to Andrew)

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse is saying goodbye -- but only to Andrew Bahl of the Topeka Capital-Journal, who is departing Kansas. He reminisces about his three years in the state with Jason Alatidd of the CJ and John Hanna of the Associated Press, where they talk about the biggest news stories and trends in Kansas. But fear not! The podcast will continue to live on.

Like what you hear? Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 86: Marinating in Marion

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:35:33 +0000

The temperatures in Topeka are scorching hot, meaning the Statehouse needs a healthy dose of chill. Andrew Bahl and Jason Alatidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press talk about the national sensation that is the police raid of the Marion County Record and bring you the latest on the ever-evolving situation.

Like what you hear? Subscribe to Chillin' in the Statehouse on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 85: These Barbies talk economic development

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 13:42:56 +0000

Barbie or Oppenheimer? Before you go off to watch the summer's hottest movie(s), Andrew Bahl and Jason Alatidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to talk about economic development. Jason talks us through us latest story on contractors at the Kansas Department of Commerce and what it means for the state's megaprojects.

And the three look back on the anniversary of the Aug. 2 vote to reject a proposed amendment that would have ended state constitutional protections for abortion rights.

Like what you hear? Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 84: Booting the two step

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:57:12 +0000

The Chillin' gang finally has a podcast not about Senate Bill 180 -- Andrew Bahl and Jason Alatidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press talk about the latest developments facing the Kansas Highway Patrol.

That includes a federal judge chastising the KHP's vehicle detention practices, as well as the dynamic facing Acting Superintendent Erik Smith.

Like what you hear? Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 83: The summer of 180

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The Statehouse has remained chill, despite the Kansas summer producing some decidedly un-chill storms in recent days. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to discuss the latest round of updates in the legal fight over SB 180 in both state and federal court.

The trio also discuss some abortion-related updates, namely the Alternatives to Abortion fund created by the Legislature. And they commiserate over car damage.

Like what you hear? Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 82: The one almost exclusively about the Kansas Department of Revenue

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0000

While Kansans are still illegally shooting off fireworks, the real fireworks have been in the courthouse over Senate Bill 180, a law changing definitions of sex in state statute. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break it all down.

The gang also focuses on the Kansas Department of Revenue's tax collections and what it means for tax policy in 2024.

Like what you hear? Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 81: Fireworks -- but not the 4th of July kind

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 16:00:00 +0000

It is heating up outside but Andrew Bahl and Jason Alatidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press are chilling in the Statehouse. They talk about the bills now in effect, starting July 1 and then move into the latest legal drama surrounding Senate Bill 180.

Like what you hear? Subscribe at Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 80: SB 180 looming

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

It has been a busy time in Kansas, and Andrew Bahl and Jason Alatidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break it all down. They focus their attention on a sweeping anti-transgender rights bill, SB 180, set to go into effect on July 1 -- and the legal battle that might ensure.

The trio also update listeners on suspicious letters, including a white powder, mailed to lawmakers in Kansas and other states.

Like what you hear? Subscribe to Chillin' in the Statehouse on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 79: Yes we Kan(Care)

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The Capital-Journal's Jason Alatidd is back from his honeymoon with a new last name. His colleagues Andrew Bahl of the CJ and John Hanna of the Associated Press immediately haul him into the podcast studio to talk about Medicaid.

It's been a busy week for the state's KanCare program, with the process heating up to select new third-party vendors to manage the health care benefits. The trio also discuss the unwinding process, where Kansans are losing health care as pandemic-era flexibilities end.

Like what you hear? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 78: Abortion lawsuits and 12-point Times New Roman

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

It may be hot outside but it is chill in the podcast studio. Jason Tidd is away on his honeymoon but Andrew Bahl of the Topeka Capital-Journal is joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to dive into a major lawsuit from abortion providers and important context on what it means to the abortion debate in Kansas.

Meanwhile, the pair dive into the change in leadership at the Kansas Highway Patrol and break down their favorite typefaces.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 77: If you like pina coladas (and education funding)

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse is feeling celebratory, as they wish the Topeka Capital-Journal's Jason Tidd well as he prepares to get married. Jason and Andrew Bahl of the Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break down Republicans backing off threats to sue over Gov. Laura Kelly's line-item veto of the school budget.

Jason, meanwhile, discusses his trip to the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan and breaks down what the facility will look like (without getting arrested, anyway).

Like what you hear? Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play and be sure to read the Topeka Capital-Journal's Statehouse coverage at cjonline.com

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 76: The hot summer (line) item

Mon, 22 May 2023 14:13:11 +0000

It has been a busy week for Gov. Laura Kelly's line item veto pen and Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are here to break it down. First they talk about Kelly's controversial handling of the state's education budget, before pivoting to her decision to line-item veto funding for a project supported by a maverick Democrat.

Like what you hear? Subscribe to Chillin' in the Statehouse on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Play.

Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 75: Left in the dark

Mon, 15 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

This podcast may be chill but issues of government transparency certainly heat things up. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break down a recently rejected settlement to a major COVID-19-era lawsuit. They also talk about Gov. Laura Kelly's most recent round of vetoes and sing songs from Mulan.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 74: Rock the Vote

Mon, 08 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Things are chiller in the Statehouse now -- which means Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press are perfectly conditioned to podcast. They break down a series of key court rulings on voting rights, as well as what the Legislature did and didn't pass on voting.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 73: That's a wrap!

Tue, 02 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

The 2023 legislative session is in the books and the chill gang is here to break it all down -- dodging a fire alarm to do so. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break down the final days of the session, including veto overrides and more. They also ponder what it means moving forward for Kansas politics and policy more broadly.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 72: Vetos, get your vetos here!

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 13:00:00 +0000

It has been a busy week in the Statehouse, as Gov. Laura Kelly signed -- and vetoed -- a whole host of bills. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break it all down and get you up to speed on the key dynamics heading into the legislative session's final days.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 71: Drop dead week

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 17:10:51 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse is so chill they are practically asleep -- oh wait, they are asleep because of the Legislature's long hours. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press are (sleepily) breaking down the major news from the biggest week of the year. They focus on a veto override on a law banning transgender athletes in women's sports, tax cuts and questions about school funding.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 70: Court is in session

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:54:39 +0000

The Kansas Supreme Court was once again in session on abortion and Andrew Bahl of the Topeka Capital-Journal is joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break it all down. The Legislature is also in session for its final week, so Andrew and John also look at the core issues left untouched, including abortion.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 67: Monday morning blues

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 16:37:40 +0000

It is another busy week in Statehouse world, and Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press break down where the Legislature is headed on abortion policy. They also recap the recent Kansas Democratic Party chair election and discuss their eating and movie-watching habits.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 66: The sleep deprivation has set in

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 16:00:00 +0000

It was a busy week in the Kansas Statehouse (hence the title) and the gang of Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the AP are punchier than usual. They talk about tax policy, bills rolling back election law and an attempt to dramatically reduce the power of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 65: Turn around, bright eyes

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 00:01:22 +0000

There's no total eclipse of the heart in the Kansas Legislature this week but it is a big week for lawmaking. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna from the Associated Press to discuss the major policy issues, notably a focus on pushing back against transgender rights and the potential for tax cuts.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 64: Elephants

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 15:39:18 +0000

Republicans met in Topeka for their annual convention -- and to pick a new chair, after weeks and months of tension. This is a two-part podcast, with Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal breaking down the dynamics at play for the Kansas GOP. But don't touch that dial, because Andrew and John will have a live breakdown of Mike Brown's election as chair.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 63: Microchips and dip

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 15:22:35 +0000

Another big economic development deal is coming to Kansas and Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break it down. They also dive into the Chinese spy balloon, flat taxes and more.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 62: What state is the state in?

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 01:28:43 +0000

Gov. Laura Kelly's state of the state address is in the books. The Topeka Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd and the Associated Press' John Hanna break down Kelly's speech, the potential for medical marijuana legalization and celebrate Kansas Day with a little musical tribute.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 60: Back under the dome

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:00:00 +0000

The Legislature is back in session and so is Chillin' in the Statehouse. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break down the first week, including the inauguration, Gov. Laura Kelly's budget address and the GOP agenda.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 59: 2023 preview

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 16:00:00 +0000

It is the busiest time of the year in Kansas government and the Topeka Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd are joined by the Associated Press' John Hanna to break down the 2023 legislative session. They talk taxes, abortion, NFTs and more.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 58: 2022 in review

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 14:35:45 +0000

The calendars may have turned to 2023 but Chillin' in the Statehouse is still stuck in the past. The Capital-Journal's Statehouse team of Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to recap the five biggest news items from 2022.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 57: Deck the halls with chill

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 16:00:00 +0000

While it is chill outside this holiday season, Chillin' in the Statehouse is keeping it even more relaxed, as Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to talk about the issues of the day.

That includes a plan to move the Kansas Highway Patrol to the attorney general's office, leadership elections in the Legislature and an oil spill in north-central Kansas (plus some Christmas carols).

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 56: The Great Resignation

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Chillin' in the Statehouse isn't going anywhere -- but some major players in Kansas government and politics are. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to discuss departures in the legislative, executive and (sort of) judicial branch.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 55: Don't chicken out

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Bawk, bawk, bawk -- Chillin' in the Statehouse is back and has lesser prairie chickens on the brain. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by the Associated Press' John Hanna to talk birds -- and some grousing from members conservatives over the direction of the Kansas Republican Party.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 54: Election recap

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 15:39:57 +0000

The general election is finally in our rearview mirror -- but there is plenty still to discuss. The Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd are joined by the Associated Press' John Hanna to break down the results and talk about what it means for both parties going forward.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 53: How to vote with Shawnee County Elections Director Andrew Howell

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 15:00:00 +0000

It is election season and Chillin' in the Statehoue wants to ensure you have the tools you need to vote. We sit down with Shawnee County Elections Director Andrew Howell to run down how to cast your ballot early, by mail or on Nov. 8 and talk through some of the challenges of election administration.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 52: Drop(box) it like its hot

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Ballot drop boxes have been in the news a lot lately, both in the Kansas Attorney General race and in a federal lawsuit. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press break down the debate over the receptacles and where the conversations on voting access in Kansas are headed.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse Episode 51: New Kobach?

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Election Day is fast approaching and the Chillin' in the Statehouse gang take some time to run down the Kansas Attorney General race between Kris Kobach and Chris Mann.

The Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to discuss the attempt by Kobach's campaign to refresh his brand and how the two candidates are talking about crime, immigration and abortion.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse Episode 50: Mr. Chillin' Goes to Washington

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The podcast crew is down a man but that doesn't stop Andrew Bahl of the Topeka Capital-Journal and John Hanna of the Associated Press from breaking down the congressional races on the November ballot.

Their conversation centers on the 3rd District race between Democrat U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids and Republican Amanda Adkins but also includes a breakdown of the political landscape more broadly.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse Episode 49: Ad wars

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000

The governor's race is heating up and the Chillin' in the Statehouse team focuses on the back-and-forth between Gov. Laura Kelly and Attorney General Derek Schmidt on the issue of transgender athletes in girls' sports.

The Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd, alongside the Associated Press' John Hanna, break down the issue, why it matters in Kansas and how voters might respond.

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Chillin' in the Statehouse Episode 48: Oink, moo, debate

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 13:45:07 +0000

The Chillin' in the Statehouse gang is back from their bi-annual field trip to the Kansas State Fair for the first gubernatorial debate and they have tales to tell. The Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd and the Associated Press' John Hanna break down where things are in the governor's race, rank their favorite fair foods and make some gratuitous animal noises.

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Chillin in the Statehouse Episode 46: Back to chill (kind of)

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:00:00 +0000

It has been a minute but the Capital-Journal's politics podcast is back to run down the national statement Kansas voters made when they rejected a proposed measure that would have ended state constitutional protections for abortion.

The Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd go over the results with the Associated Press' John Hanna, breaking down what happened to produce the surprising outcome and what it means for Kansas going forward.

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Chillin in the Statehouse Episode 43: Political fiesta

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000

There is one area of the 2022 elections the Chillin in the Statehouse gang have not talked about yet: the Legislature. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to break down the important legislative races on the ballot and why they aren't as competitive as you might expect.

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Chillin in the Statehouse Episode 42: Independent thinking

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 14:17:58 +0000

Chillin in the Statehouse is firmly entrenched in election coverage, including the potential inclusion of independent state Sen. Dennis Pyle to the governor's race. The Capital-Journal's Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to discuss what it all means. They also break down the other statewide races.

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Chillin in the Statehouse Episode 41: Election season has arrived

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 14:21:40 +0000

This election season, the only campaign promise Chillin in the Statehouse promises is to bring you the best and timeliest analysis of the most important Kansas races. Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd of the The Topeka Capital-Journal are joined by John Hanna of the Associated Press to look at the governor's race and GOP frontrunner Attorney General Derek Schmidt's choice for lieutenant governor, Katie Sawyer.

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Chillin in the Statehouse Episode 40: School's out!

Mon, 30 May 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Both school and the Kansas Legislature are out for the year and the Capital-Journal's two statehouse reporters, Andrew Bahl and Jason Tidd, are joined by education reporter Rafael Garcia to talk about it all. They run down the big education policy developments from the last year and break down how it will impact your school.

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