Pat Proctor

Pat Proctor is a member of the Kansas House of Representatives, representing the 41st District, which includes Fort Leavenworth and Leavenworth, Kansas. A member of the Republican Party, Proctor has been serving in this capacity since his election in November 2020. In addition to his legislative role, he is a retired United States Army colonel and an academic, currently holding a position as an assistant professor of homeland security at Wichita State University. Proctor has also made contributions to military strategy and analysis through his writings and has developed wargames focused on modern combat scenarios.

Early life and career

Pat Proctor was born between 1971 and 1972. He pursued a career in the military, ultimately retiring as a colonel in the United States Army. His military career included significant leadership roles and deployments, which provided him with extensive experience in operations and strategy. Proctor graduated from the School of Advanced Military Studies, an institution known for training military leaders in complex problem-solving and strategic thinking.

During his military service, Proctor was deployed to various locations, including a notable deployment to Jordan as a battalion commander. He also served in Iraq, where he was involved in operations in Tikrit, the hometown of Saddam Hussein, as part of Task Force Patriot. His work in Iraq included serving as the operations officer for this task force, which was responsible for various military operations in the region. Additionally, in 2007, Proctor was part of the Joint Strategic Assessment Team, a group tasked with developing strategies for post-surge Iraq. This team included diplomats and military theorists and was led by prominent figures such as General David Petraeus and Colonel H.R. McMaster.

Beyond his military service, Proctor has been active in academia and writing. He has held the position of assistant professor of homeland security at Wichita State University, where he contributes to the education of future leaders in the field of security studies. His academic background and military experience have informed his writings, which cover a range of topics related to military strategy, history, and security.

Since 2008, Proctor has engaged in freelance writing, contributing to various military and strategic publications. His work has appeared in the US Army War College journal, Parameters, and online platforms such as StrategyPage.com and Armchair General. Proctor has authored several books, including "Lessons Unlearned: The U.S. Army's Role in Creating the Forever Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq," which was published by the University of Missouri Press. His writings often reflect his military expertise and insights into the complexities of warfare and security.

Legislative service

Pat Proctor was first elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in November 2020, representing the 41st District. His election marked the beginning of his formal involvement in state politics, where he has since participated in various legislative activities. As a member of the Republican Party, Proctor aligns with the party's policies and initiatives, contributing to discussions and decisions that impact his constituents and the state of Kansas.

In April 2025, Proctor announced his candidacy for the position of Kansas Secretary of State, indicating his intention to further his political career and expand his influence in state governance. His legislative service has involved engagement with various issues pertinent to his district and the broader Kansas community. As a state representative, Proctor participates in the legislative process, including the drafting and voting on bills, committee work, and constituent outreach.

Proctor's military background may inform his approach to governance and public service, as he applies his leadership skills and strategic thinking to the challenges faced by the state. His experience in the military, combined with his academic pursuits, provides him with a unique perspective on issues related to security, public policy, and community engagement.

Policy focus and district

As a representative of the 41st District, which encompasses Fort Leavenworth and Leavenworth, Kansas, Proctor's policy focus is likely influenced by the demographics and needs of his constituents. Fort Leavenworth is a significant military installation, and the presence of military families may shape the priorities of his legislative agenda. Issues related to veterans, military affairs, and community support for active-duty personnel and their families are likely to be prominent in his considerations.

Proctor's background in homeland security and military strategy may also lead him to prioritize legislation related to public safety, emergency management, and defense. His academic role in homeland security further underscores his commitment to addressing issues that affect the safety and security of the community.

In addition to military-related concerns, Proctor may engage with a range of other policy areas, including education, healthcare, and economic development, reflecting the diverse needs of his constituents. His legislative work aims to address the challenges faced by the residents of his district while promoting the interests of the state as a whole.

Overall, Pat Proctor's career as a state legislator is characterized by his military background, academic contributions, and commitment to public service. His ongoing work in the Kansas House of Representatives and his candidacy for statewide office demonstrate his dedication to serving the people of Kansas and addressing the issues that matter to them.