Sadly but predictably, mudslinging in the Kansas U.S. Senate race began around 1 a.m. on Wednesday in Senator John Cornyn’s congratulatory statement to Congressman Jerry Moran.

Cornyn stated, “Democrat nominee Lisa Johnston has clearly demonstrated that she would simply serve as another rubberstamp for President Obama and Harry Reid’s out-of-control economic agenda if she makes it to Washington, perpetuating the President’s failed record of higher taxes, skyrocketing job loss, and bloated government bureaucracy.”

This statement has absolutely no basis in reality and it is clear from his statement that Senator Cornyn knows nothing about Dr. Lisa Johnston or her campaign priorities. One of her key priorities is integrity and leadership. Her campaign literature states “We need true representation for the people – not politicians who work for special interests. This requires a commitment to integrity and fighting for what is best for Kansans.”

During a July 15, 2010 bipartisan candidate forum in Mound City, KS, Lisa was asked “Will you as a Senator vote according to the wishes of the people you represent even if it meant voting against your party line?” She replied, “Absolutely, without question. One of the things I am committed to is leading with integrity and having an independent mind. I think that we have far too much partisanship in Washington... I’m committed to doing what’s best for Kansans not necessarily just following along with the party line...” Video of this question and answer exchange is available on YouTube

In response to Cornyn’s statement, Lisa stated “It is ironic that Senator Cornyn uses the term “rubberstamp” as this is the perfect word to describe the current negative Republican messaging toward Democrats. The general template seems to be:  If elected, [insert Democratic candidate name] will [follow, continue, or serve] the [some combination of the following names Obama/Reid/Pelosi] agenda and this will lead to [insert various current problems and negative stereotypes about Democratic candidates].”

“This approach to campaigning is a disappointing insult to the voters of our state and our nation. Criticism must be based on facts in order to be valid. This template-style attack aimed at undermining any Democratic candidate is completely transparent and symptomatic of the politics as usual approach that makes people despise and distrust politicians.”

Lisa also noted, “It is extremely disappointing to see the negative rhetoric off to such an early start. I want to keep my campaign focused on how to solve our challenges and move our country forward. However, I will not allow patently false statements to go uncorrected. Voters deserve the truth.”

Learn more about Lisa's positions on issues important to Kansans at LisaForKansas.com