Conflict of interest.
Three main reasons a lobbyist for the League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM) cannot also serve as a mayor in Kansas are: a fundamental conflict of interest, the specific nature of the LKM's work, and prohibitions under state ethics laws. [ 1 , 2 ] 1. Fundamental conflict of interest As mayor, a person has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of their specific city and its constituents. In contrast, as a lobbyist for the League of Kansas Municipalities, that person is paid to advocate for the collective interests of all Kansas cities at the state legislature. These two duties will inevitably conflict, especially when state legislation helps some cities but harms others. For example, a bill that financially benefits the state's small towns might negatively affect a larger city. The individual would be unable to fairly serve both employers, as their "independence of judgment or action" would be compromised. [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ] 2. Specific role of LKM and its ...