Voelker files for 1st District County Commission Race
- robvoelker
- Feb 2
- 2 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Voelker files for 1st District County Commission Race
February 2nd, 2026
A fresh voice for responsible growth and community investment, Rob Voelker filed today for the Democratic nomination for the first district seat currently held by John Ford. Voelker, KMAN’s former Sports Director, is the member of several local boards and a USD 383 parent whose Riley County roots run deep.
“I have lived in Riley County for nearly two decades, and I am deeply invested in this community. I understand the issues we face. I’m running because I bring fresh ideas and a deep commitment to serve all residents of our county. I’m a collaborator who can bring people together -- we may not always agree, but I know that with listening and trust, we can reach a consensus to help make certain that Riley County is the best place to work and live for all of us.”
Voelker, 46, moved to Riley County in 2008 when he was hired by KMAN radio as its Sports Director. He and his wife met and started a family in Manhattan, where they are active parents in their school community at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary (TR). He serves on multiple boards working to better the community, including the City of Manhattan Community Services Funds Advisory Board, the Riley County Health Department Public Health Advisory Council, TR Site Council, and the Shepherd’s Crossing board. He is an active volunteer for MART (Manhattan Area Settlement Team) and in his children’s classrooms at TR. He can be heard across Manhattan as a PA announcer for K-State sports.
“I’ll be a fresh voice for Riley County because I care deeply about this community, I understand the issues we face, and I want to see our county grow. We need to spur responsible economic development and increase our property tax base. There are no easy solutions, but I have spent a great deal of time across the county meeting with current commissioners, realtors, builders, business leaders, and other government officials to discuss our lack of affordable housing, and our desire to increase employment opportunity and economic stability. I will work with partners in all sectors on equitable plans and solutions. As a county commissioner, I will work to ensure that all residents to have economic opportunity in Riley County.”
For information, please contact Rob Voelker at: rob@robvoelkerforrileycountyks.com