Marshall files for Senate seat

Bob Marshall, R-Fort Scott, officially launched his campaign for the 13th State Senate District Friday, traveling to Topeka to complete the necessary paperwork for filing.

On April 10, Marshall announced plans to form an exploratory committee to examine the feasibility of running for the Senate position.

“Over the last month, I have met with many groups and individuals, including business leaders, area chamber of commerce, veterans’ organizations and members of the agricultural community who share common concerns,” Marshall said. “All agreed it is time for a change and offered support for my candidacy.”

“The citizens of our district are seeking new direction from their elected officials — a direction that will strengthen the economic base of southeast Kansas and bring new industry and jobs to the region,” Marshall added.

Marshall joins Jake LaTurner, R-Pittsburg, in the race for the seat. Incumbent Sen. Jim Barone, D-Frontenac, has said he’ll make a decision on whether to run after the session concludes.

Steve Sloan and George Nettels, both of Pittsburg, will co-chair Marshall’s overall campaign. The treasurer will be Mark Werner of Pittsburg. Individual committees will be established in each county of the district, which includes Crawford, Bourbon and Cherokee.

“I’ve known Bob Marshall for quite a number of years and know him to be a man of high character and one who would bring honor to all of southeast Kansas if elected,” Nettels said. “He has a reputation of honesty and of being at all times a gentleman. He will be his own man and give thoughtful and prayerful consideration to the issues that confront people of this district. All in this senatorial district would take pride in his election.”

Marshall, who is currently the athletic director at Fort Scott Community College, retired as colonel after serving 33 years in the Marine Corps. He flew 33 years as a commercial airline pilot; during this time, he was Regional Flight Director for three pilot bases.

Marshall holds numerous leadership positions. He is serving his second term as chairman of the board for the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as the executive director of the Bourbon County Economic Development Council, Inc., and is chairman of the Fort Scott Airport Advisory Board. He is a member of SEK, Inc., and of the Highway 69 Association.

Marshall also serves on the board of directors of the Kansas Food Bank Independence Warehouse.  For this organization, he heads up the Bourbon County Back Pack program, which provides weekend food for needy children.

Marshall said he believes his professional experience, coupled with a strong background in economic development, has prepared him to represent southeast Kansas in Topeka.