Former Kansas governor Jeff Colyer has ended his gubernatorial campaign to focus on his health after being diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The 61-year-old, who held the office for less than a year following the 2018 resignation of Sam Brownback, made the announcement in a statement Monday.
“While I have always focused on helping others, for the next few weeks I am going to focus on my health. I was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer like my father and grandfather. After treatment, I am confident for a full recovery. Given these challenges, Ruth and I have decided to withdraw from the Governor’s race,” he said.
Colyer’s decision likely clears the Republican field for Attorney General Derek Schmidt against Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2022.. Colyer says he is endorsing Schmidt’s campaign.
