Probably more than almost any other member of the Kansas Senate, Oletha personally knows HUNDREDS of her constituents -- and has spent a lifetime sharing in their hopes and fears, disappointments and joys, hardships and successes, struggles and victories.

Small wonder, then, that Democrats and Republicans, alike, frequently turn to her for guidance and support in developing issues with a human touch -- from childcare to law-enforcement.

But Oletha is also well-known, state-wide, as a pro-development progressive, who eagerly backs "Jobs Through Development" for her constituents -- advancing Kansas growth to benefit all.

Wrangling compromises between Democrats and Republicans, Oletha practices the "bipartisan" ideals of the Senate (while others merely talk about them) -- improving Kansas for EVERYONE.

Starting with the 2019 Legislative session, Oletha has new leadership responsibilities as the Senate's Assistant Minority Leader -- the second-highest ranking Democrat in the Kansas Senate -- under Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley. She now works closely with Governor Kelly (right) and Leader Hensley to craft new legislation to help Kansas recover from the troubles of recent prior administrations.

But she still remains close to her own District, and returns from Topeka regularly to keep closely connected to the people who send her to Topeka.