Kelly, Laura J., 1950-

Laura J. Kelly (born January 24, 1950) is an American politician serving as the 48th governor of Kansas since 2019. She is a member of the Democratic Party.

Born in New York City, she studied at Bradley University, earning a Bachelor of Science in psychology, and at Indiana University, earning a Master of Science in therapeutic recreation. Kelly was the executive director of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association, advocating for public parks across the state, prior to entering politics. Kelly was elected to the Kansas Senate in November 2004, ultimately serving as Minority Whip.

On December 15, 2017, Kelly announced her intention to run for governor of Kansas. Winning the Democratic primary in August 2018, she defeated Republican Secretary of State Kris Kobach in the November general election, earning endorsements from 28 current or former Republican government officials in the state of Kansas. On December 23, 2020, Kelly declared her candidacy for reelection in 2022.