Alexis Simmons is a graduate of Washburn University (Go Bods!) where she served as student body president and majored in political science. After graduating from Washburn, she obtained a master's degree in American politics and government from American University’s School of Public Affairs in Washington, D.C.
While in D.C., Alexis helped train women to run for office. Additionally, Alexis joined a DEI consulting firm and with a small team advised Fortune 500 companies on creation and implementation of forward-thinking, socially responsible policies.
After moving back to Topeka, Alexis worked for Progressive Turnout Project - the largest Democratic get out the vote organization in the U.S. - in the 2020 election. Following the election, she returned to the Kansas Legislature.
Former House Minority Leader Tom Sawyer hired Alexis in 2021 and she continues serving in her role as the Communications Director under Leader Vic Miller and the Kansas House Democrats.
As a passionate advocate for abortion access and women's reproductive rights, she planned the first protest in Kansas after the overturning of Roe v. Wade. She also worked as a freelance political consultant in the August 2022 primary election, helping women's groups across the state get out the vote.
While at Washburn, she interned for former Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley and also worked as an intern for Little Government Relations, monitoring legislation focused on education, behavioral health, and criminal justice reform. Alexis was also an office assistant in the Office of the Kansas Attorney General.
In 2021, EMILY’s List selected Alexis in a nationwide search to train to run for office as an inaugural member of their Ignite Change fellowship.
Alexis is an adjunct professor in the political science department at Washburn, a member of the League of Women Voters-Shawnee County, a member of the Capital Area Democratic Women's club, a graduate of the 2021-2022 Kansas Chamber of Commerce’s Emerging Leaders program, Democratic precinct committeewoman (and Ward captain), and National Organization of Women (NOW) honoree.
Alexis has served as a commissioner on the City of Topeka’s Human Relations Commission since July 2022, focusing on racial equity and justice causes. She is also on the International Public Policy Institute's Board of Directors.
After attending college at Washburn and graduate school in Washington, D.C., Alexis returned to Topeka to build a career serving the community she loves.
A decade of working in government and politics has prepared Alexis to hit the ground running to get things done for Topeka in the Kansas Legislature.
Vic Miller, the current representative for the 58th district, endorses Alexis. He says, "Alexis brings to the position a rare combination of youthful energy, legislative experience, and demonstrated concern for the people of Topeka. I am entirely confident she is the right choice for our district and I excitedly endorse her. I hope you join me in supporting Alexis."
Two past representatives of the district - State Board of Education Member Ann Mah and former Senate Democratic Leader Anthony Hensley - have also endorsed Alexis.
MEET ALEXIS SIMMONS.
