Who Is Laura Kelly? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Laura Kelly, born on January 24, 1950, is the 48th Governor of Kansas, having assumed office on January 14, 2019. As a member of the Democratic Party, Kelly has made significant contributions to Kansas' political landscape, focusing on education funding, healthcare expansion, and infrastructure development. With a rich background in public service, she previously served in the Kansas Senate and as the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
As of 2025, Laura Kelly is 75 years old. Her journey through politics has been marked by her commitment to improving the lives of Kansans while navigating the complexities of governance.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1950 |
| Age | 75 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Laura Kelly's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Laura Kelly stands at a height of approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) and maintains a healthy weight of around 140 pounds (63.5 kg). While body measurements specific to her figure are not often publicly disclosed, her pragmatic and professional appearance reflects her dedication to her role as a leader.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Laura Kelly has maintained a relatively private personal life, focusing on her career in public service. She is married to her husband, who has largely stayed out of the public eye. Together, they have raised two children. As of 2025, there are no publicly available details concerning any significant changes in her relationship status, suggesting a continued commitment to her family.
Net Worth and Salary
As a sitting governor, Laura Kelly's salary is estimated to be around $113,000 annually, which is standard for state governors in the United States. Over the years, her net worth has been reported to be in the range of $1 million to $2 million, derived from various sources, including her long-standing political career, public speaking engagements, and potential investments. This financial foundation allows her to focus on her gubernatorial duties with a degree of security.
In 2019, Kelly vetoed two Republican bills that would have cut state income taxes in Kansas. She said that the state could not afford the cuts, and that the Republican bill, which would have cut revenues by an estimated $245 million over a three-year period, would have precipitated a "senseless fiscal crisis" and created a budget deficit.
Kelly's decision, as well as higher-than-expected state revenue intakes, led to the state beginning its 2020 budget year with $1.1 billion in cash reserves. She sought to use some of the reserves to pay down debt and make payments to the state pension system.
In May 2022, she signed a bill into law that will gradually reduce the sales tax rate on food before eliminating it in 2025.
Career, Business and Investments
Laura Kelly's career spans several decades in public service and politics. Before her election as Governor, she had an extensive tenure in the Kansas Senate, where she worked on numerous pivotal issues affecting the state. After becoming governor, she concentrated on enacting policies that promote economic growth, education reform, and improved healthcare access.
In terms of investments, Kelly has demonstrated a commitment to transparency in her financial dealings, consistent with her advocacy for accountability in government.
In January 2020, Kelly called for major changes to the Osawatomie State Hospital, the long-troubled state psychiatric hospital that has faced scrutiny from federal regulators over security, safety, and treatment lapses. She has supported a plan for state funding for mental health crisis centers in the state.
Social Network
Laura Kelly is active on several social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Through these channels, she engages with constituents, shares updates on her policies and initiatives, and promotes community events. Her social media presence plays a crucial role in reinforcing her connections with the public and enhancing her visibility as a political leader.
Graves said, "Laura Kelly is the only Democrat I have ever endorsed for public office. And the reason I'm doing that now is because I believe so much is at stake in the state of Kansas. I have known Laura for over 30 years.
She has all the qualities and all the capabilities that we are looking for to lead the state during this difficult time and to reestablish the state to what it once was. ...
Laura has integrity, and I know she will bring Kansans together regardless of party to solve problems." Former Republican state senator Tim Owens was the campaign treasurer for Kansas independent candidate Greg Orman, but he stepped down from that post on October 30 and endorsed Kelly, believing only she could beat Kobach.
Education
Laura Kelly graduated from the University of Kansas, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. Her educational background has played a significant role in shaping her views on the importance of public education, which remains a central theme in her political agenda. Her academic achievements reflect her dedication to lifelong learning and advocacy for accessible education for all Kansas residents.
In conclusion, Laura Kelly continues to play a vital role in Kansas' political landscape as Governor. Her dedication to public service, combined with her personal values, education, and experiences, shapes her governance and leadership style as she navigates the complexities of state leadership in 2025.
She studied at Bradley University in Illinois, earning a Bachelor of Science in psychology in 1971, and at Indiana University Bloomington, earning a Master of Science in therapeutic recreation. Kelly received the Bradley University Distinguished Alumna award and was inducted into Bradley's Centurion Society on October 4, 2021.
