KANSAS – Don Coover, candidate for Kansas’ 2nd Congressional District, recently discussed his background, campaign motivations, and key policy priorities in an interview with Ad Astra News ahead of the November 3rd election.
Coover grew up on a farm in the southeast corner of Kansas as one of seven children. His mother was a school teacher, and his father was a union truck driver who ran a small dairy farm raising crops and beef cattle. After graduating from high school in Erie, Kansas, Coover attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He served several years in the military as an Army pilot, flying helicopters and reconnaissance aircraft for intelligence operations. Following his military service, Coover earned a veterinary degree and has operated a cattle ranch and a veterinary practice specializing in cattle work for the last 40 years.
Discussing his motivation to run for Congress, Coover pointed to his military service and decades as a taxpayer and business owner. “I spent all those years in the military working with men and women that were doing sometimes uncomfortable, dangerous and difficult things,” Coover said, adding that he wants to prevent what he views as self-serving decision-making in Washington. He emphasized that Washington needs leaders who have experienced the real-world effects of public policy firsthand.
During the interview, Coover highlighted several policy concerns affecting Kansans and the nation:
Agricultural Economy and Tariffs: Coover noted that tariffs are “impacting the ag economy enormously,” raising input costs for producers and overall prices for consumers.
Energy Costs and Trade: He stated that conflict involving Iran has “spiked energy costs, diesel fuel and gasoline,” and stressed the importance of consulting with allies and making sound trading decisions.
Healthcare and Governance: Coover expressed concern over healthcare reform, stating that policies have impacted Medicare and Medicaid, and called for greater transparency and thorough investigations regarding high-profile matters, including the Epstein files.
Reflecting on his agricultural background, Coover noted that managing crops and livestock teaches the importance of planning for unexpected events and maintaining attention to detail- qualities he believes are essential in leadership.
On collaborating with colleagues in Congress, Coover expressed a desire to advocate for key priorities while listening to diverse perspectives. “You learn more from the people who disagree with you than from the people that agree with you,” Coover noted.
Looking ahead to the November 3rd election, Coover summarized his campaign message: “What you see is what you get.” He stated that his primary goal is to bring about meaningful change for producers, consumers, and service members rather than pursue a long-term career in politics. When asked what he loves about Kansas, Coover cited “the unexpected weather conditions,” noting that its unpredictability mirrors the current political environment.
Listen to Don Coover’s Full Interview with Ad Astra News on the Podcasts Page.
