SALINA — State Rep. Clarke Sanders has withdrawn from the November 2026 general election, citing health issues, according to an announcement Wednesday from the Saline County Republican Party.

Sanders, a Republican who represents Kansas House District 69, notified the party of his withdrawal on Sept. 2.

According to the party, Sanders intends to complete his current term, which ends in January.

The Saline County Republican Central Committee will hold a convention at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Courtyard by Marriott, 3020 Riffle Drive in Salina, to select a replacement Republican nominee for the November ballot.

Under the convention process, voting will be limited to eligible Republican precinct committeemen and committeewomen who live within House District 69. Kansas law provides for district conventions to fill vacancies in party candidacies for district offices.

People interested in seeking the Republican nomination have been asked to contact Saline County Republican Party Chair Brenda Smith by Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Candidates will have an opportunity to speak during the Sept. 10 convention before committee members vote.

“Selecting a State Representative to fill a vacancy is a significant responsibility for our precinct committee members,” Smith said. “The party is grateful for the years of service Clarke Sanders has given our community.”

Vice Chair Anthony Newell said the precinct committee members participating in the convention will be responsible for selecting someone who can represent the district in Topeka.

Sanders was first elected to the Kansas House in 2020 and has since won reelection. House District 69 includes portions of Salina and other areas of Saline County.

The Sept. 10 convention will determine the Republican nominee for the November election. It will not replace Sanders in his current House seat if he remains in office through the end of his term as announced.