Topeka , KS – Mary Pilcher Cook (R-Shawnee) filed today as a candidate for the 10th District state Senate seat. The district covers the city of Shawnee and northeast Lenexa and is an open seat since Sen. Nick Jordan is running for Congress.

"Shawnee and Lenexa are very important communities to me as I grew up here and have seen them grow and develop,” Pilcher Cook said. “And in these difficult economic times, we need an experienced legislator to fill Senator Jordan ’s shoes.”

Pilcher Cook has served four years representing much of this area already. With her legislative experience, combined with her educational background, financial work and economic knowledge, Mary knows what it will take to get the Kansas economy moving again.

“We need lower gas prices at the pump and a reduction of energy costs in Kansas ,” Pilcher Cook said. “That is more likely to happen when we send a consistent message – Kansas is ready for business and we welcome new investment with better jobs. It is fewer regulations and lower taxes for everyone that will ensure greater job opportunities for all.”

Pilcher Cook has a record of pressing for more local control of education – with a focus on keeping more education dollars in Johnson County . Her goal is to give teachers and parents budget transparency so they know how money in being spent in their schools. Pilcher Cook is the only candidate in the race with a pro-life record.

Mary Pilcher Cook is competing in the Republican Primary, to be held Aug. 5.