Ethan Patterson is a seasoned government relations and public policy professional with more than 20 years of experience in state and federal government affairs, legislative strategy, stakeholder engagement, and constituent advocacy. He currently serves as Senior Manager of Government Relations for Sunflower Health Plan, a Centene Corporation company, where he leads legislative and regulatory engagement efforts in Kansas and serves as a key liaison to state policymakers, including the Governor's Office and legislative leadership.

 

Throughout his career, Ethan has built a reputation as a trusted advisor and effective advocate, leveraging extensive relationships across Kansas government, business, and community organizations. At Sunflower Health Plan, he plays a leading role in advancing health policy initiatives, coordinating legislative strategy, supporting Medicaid and Medicare policy development, and helping shape long-term priorities related to rural healthcare access and KanCare program implementation.

 

Prior to joining Sunflower Health Plan, Ethan served as Deputy State Director for U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, overseeing congressional district operations throughout eastern Kansas and managing constituent outreach efforts with local governments, business leaders, trade associations, and advocacy organizations. He also served as Chief of Staff to Kansas Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, where he directed legislative operations, coordinated policy strategy between legislative leaders, and worked closely with the Governor's Office on high-profile negotiations and statewide policy initiatives.

 

Ethan's public service career also includes roles with Congressman Kevin Yoder, where he provided legislative support and constituent services across Kansas's Third Congressional District, as well as experience in lobbying and government affairs with Little Government Relations. His early career included service as a Legislative Intern for former Kansas Senate Majority Leader Derek Schmidt.

 

Known for his collaborative leadership style and deep understanding of the legislative process, Ethan has cultivated longstanding relationships with Kansas's federal delegation, state executive leadership, legislative leaders, business organizations, and community stakeholders. His experience spans healthcare policy, legislative affairs, strategic communications, coalition building, constituent services, and public sector leadership.