Endorsement of a candidate is a fairly thorough and rigorous process. The committee evaluates candidates based on a number of criteria including:

• Candidate Questionnaire
• Incumbency
• Voting Record
• Voter Demographics
• Candidate Background and Temperament

Candidate Questionnaires:

Each candidate is sent a comprehensive candidate questionnaire asking a variety of questions on right-to-life issues. While the questionnaires are available for public review, candidate responses are kept confidential. All candidates, including incumbents, must return the survey if they want to be considered for an endorsement.

Beginning with some basic philosophical and scientific questions on human life and Roe v. Wade, questions range from abortion restrictions to human cloning, euthanasia and political free speech.

Once questionnaires are returned, responses are tabulated and scored according to a point system. Questionnaires with higher scores are treated more favorable.

Incumbency:
Candidates, who are also incumbents, are given higher priority over challengers. Kansans for Life's Political Action Committee believes that incumbents should be rewarded for their dedication to Pro-Life legislation and issues. In a political race where there is a Pro-Life incumbent and a Pro-Life challenger, the incumbent will most likely receive the endorsement unless there are other extenuating circumstances.

Voting Record:
A candidate's voting record is also considered in the process as it reflects that candidate's philosophy and commitment to right-to-life issues. In situations where a candidate is running for a another political office, voting records are helpful in the endorsement process. Voting records should also confirm a candidate's questionnaire responses. Candidates who rely exclusively on their voting record and do not return a questionnaire, risk losing an endorsement to another candidate who has turned in a questionnaire.

Voter Demographics:

Voter demographics are also considered in the endorsement process as it may ultimately foretell the outcome of the race. In a "district" where a Republican candidate is outnumbered by Democratic voters, that candidate may not have enough Republicans to elect him/her to office. Although the candidate will receive the PAC's endorsement, the outcome is almost always predetermined.

Candidate Background and Temperament:

Also important is a candidate's electability. Candidates who do not exhibit a temperament for public office will most likely not be endorsed. Candidates with serious or questionable legal or personal problems will also not receive an endorsement. Oftentimes, personality issues will be discovered during the interview process. Kansans for Life's Political Action Committee is very protective of its reputation as an authority on pro-life candidates and the political process.