Standing Up for Businesses During the Lockdowns: A Contrast in Leadership
A real leader will stand up to the bullies, not just go along to get along.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to our communities, particularly for small businesses struggling to stay afloat under draconian lockdown measures. While some leaders chose to close schools and impose strict mandates, I stood by our business owners, providing the support and resources they needed to keep their doors open and their livelihoods intact.
A Clear Difference in Leadership
During the pandemic, I founded "Open Up Kansas" to help business owners and individuals navigate the confusing and often contradictory lockdown provisions pushed by big corporations and Governor Laura “Lockdown” Kelly. My efforts were aimed at ensuring that businesses, churches, and events could continue to operate safely, preserving jobs and supporting our local economy.
In stark contrast, my opponent, who was a school superintendent at the time, chose to close his schools, enforce mask mandates on students, and shift to remote learning. While I was on the ground, working tirelessly to support business owners and protect their rights, my opponent was collecting his sizable government paycheck from home, disengaged from the struggles of everyday Kansans.
Real Support for Business Owners
One of the many business owners I had the privilege of helping during this challenging time was Amanda Son, a local hairdresser. When a TV news crew ambushed her, trying to catch her in violation of the lockdown orders, she called me in desperation. I immediately contacted local authorities and guided her through the situation, allowing her to continue providing for her family. Amanda's story is just one example of the countless individuals and businesses that "Open Up Kansas" was able to support.
Amanda’s endorsement means a great deal to me:
"David's unwavering support during that crisis allowed me to continue providing for my family when the government was dictating how we should live our lives. His dedication to fighting for our freedoms and standing up against misinformation and unjust mandates was not only inspiring but also life-saving for many of us." - Amanda Son
Protecting Livelihoods vs. Political Convenience
While I was working directly with business owners to find practical solutions and keep their operations running, my opponent chose to play it safe, closing schools and mandating masks. This approach not only disrupted the education of our children but also failed to consider the broader impact on families and the local economy. His actions reflect a lack of understanding and a disconnect from the real challenges faced by our community.
A Commitment to Conservative Values
My efforts during the pandemic were guided by a commitment to conservative values—supporting small businesses, protecting individual freedoms, and opposing government overreach. These values stand in stark contrast to my opponent’s record of expanding government control and limiting personal choice.
Moving Forward Together
The choice in this election is clear. We need a representative who understands the struggles of small business owners, who has proven their commitment to standing up for our community, and who will fight against government overreach. I am that representative.
With your support, I will continue to advocate for policies that protect our rights, support our local economy, and ensure that government works for the people—not the other way around. Let’s build a future where businesses can thrive, where our children receive the education they deserve, and where individual freedoms are respected.
Vote David Schneider for Kansas State Senate. Let’s stand together for a stronger, freer Kansas.
Sincerely,
David Schneider