From the Blondesense comments, DBK writes:

I am unfamiliar with Kansas politics, so what I have to say on this is pure speculation, but I always find it the most cynical of acts when someone who has long been in one party and is deep within the party decides to change parties. It always seems opportunistic and it is inevitably proven so. Were there a genuine change of heart with respect to political platforms and philosophies, the change would not be affected at a time when, as it also inevitably proves to be, a political opportunity is in the offing. Read more…