Juan C. Luengo, an Olathe Democrat, is challenging Republican incumbent Steven Johnson for Kansas state treasurer in the Nov. 3 election. Libertarian Eric Lund is also running.

Asked why he is seeking the office, Luengo said in our questionnaire that "finance is his love language" and that he has "…been working in risk management for 20 years." He added: "He wants to bring meaningful change to better the life of every Kansan."

Candidate information

Party: Luengo said in our questionnaire: "While Juan is registered and running as a Democrat, this office will fundamentally remain non-partisan under Juan's leadership. Small businesses don't ask about party affiliation before serving customers, and the same principle applies here."

Residence: Olathe, Kansas, according to the Johnson County Election Office.

Family: Luengo said in our questionnaire: "Juan is a single father."

Education: Luengo said in our questionnaire: "Juan has a Bachelor's degree in Communication from Pennsylvania State University; while there, he was an Honors recipient of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars."

He also cited certificate courses: "the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, the Strategy and Business Development Certificate from Dartmouth College, and a certification in Mergers & Acquisitions and Corporate Development Strategies from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania."

Previous elected or appointed office: Luengo said in our questionnaire: "I have not previously served in any elected or appointed office."

Experience and public service

Occupation and work history: Luengo said in our questionnaire: "Juan C. Luengo has worked in risk management since 2007, building a reputation for crafting customized financial-protection strategies for businesses in some of the most complex and demanding industries."

He was "named CEO of Engage Insurance Group in January 2021," he said. He also serves on the boards of Mental Health America of the Heartland and The Builders' Association, a chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America, according to his campaign website.

Accomplishments: Asked what past accomplishments show he can handle the job, Luengo said in our questionnaire: "Juan was named CEO of Engage Insurance Group in January 2021, he led the company through a transformation of one carrier to over 140 carriers."

He added: "He's expanded the Engage brand in California, Colorado, Kentucky, and Missouri and has invested in technology to streamline processes and bring efficiencies for clients."

On the issues

Unclaimed property: Asked what he would do to return unclaimed property faster, Luengo said in our questionnaire: "The website needs a revamp, and the office needs new technology to make things easier for consumers, especially staff."

He said the wait is too long: "Receiving a 10-page letter that someone needs to fill out, then mail, and wait at least 60-90 days to get a check is too long."

ESG investments: Asked whether politics or social goals should play a role in how Kansas invests public money, Luengo said in our questionnaire: "ESG is a form of revenue generator for the state, and it is supplementary to the other investments made in other energy sources."

Linked deposits and local banking: Asked how he would direct more state investments through Kansas banks, Luengo said in our questionnaire that he would "promote the linked deposits programs to as many chambers of commerce, Small Business Development Centers, and other business organizations."