Senator Roger Marshall Settles Bakery Bill After Six Years

<figure><img alt="Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., listens as Vice President JD Vance speaks during an event at Webco Manufacturing, in Olathe, Kansas, U.S., September 14, 2026. Mark Schiefelbein/Pool via REUTERS" src="https://thedailybeast-thedailybeast-prod.web.arc-cdn.net/resizer/v2/6OXGD4PFU5EFPJDEDU6Q6INMFE.JPG?auth=7d011f75d3af24aaa5f911f9dd0d57f17aec2778ea346cccd5a2f176598161ec&amp;smart=true&amp;width=2233&amp;height=1256" /><figcaption>Mark Schiefelbein / via REUTERS</figcaption></figure><p>Kansas Senator Roger Marshall has settled an outstanding bill with a local bakery after being publicly called out for the debt. The issue arose from a campaign order for cookies, muffins, and brownies made in 2020 for a primary election watch party, which was never paid.</p><p>Holly Thomas, owner of Holly’s Sweet Treats, detailed her experience on Facebook, stating that despite multiple attempts to collect payment, she received no response. Thomas emphasized the financial strain on her business during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that every dollar was crucial at that time.</p><p>Thomas' post gained traction online, coinciding with reports of Marshall's history of suing patients for unpaid medical bills, which has drawn criticism as he campaigns for re-election against Democrat Adam Hamilton. If defeated, Marshall would be the first Republican to lose a Senate race in Kansas since 1932.</p><p>On October 8, 2026, Marshall announced via social media that he had paid the bakery bill, which included 150 frosted sugar cookies, 100 mini strawberry muffins, and 100 fudge brownies, along with interest. He stated that the campaign was unaware of the unpaid bill until it was brought to their attention.</p><p>Marshall shared a transaction receipt showing a payment of $1,300 to Thomas. However, his announcement was met with backlash on social media, where users referenced his past actions towards patients who failed to pay medical bills.</p><p>Marshall, who ceased practicing medicine in 2016 to pursue a political career, did not deny any allegations regarding his past but advised voters to disregard reports from The New York Times. Thomas confirmed receipt of the payment, expressing relief that the invoice was finally settled after six years.</p><p>Some commenters noted that the amount paid did not align with expectations based on interest calculations over the years. Thomas clarified that the initial order was placed by a campaign staff member, indicating shared responsibility for the oversight.</p><p>In response to inquiries about the controversy, Marshall’s campaign did not address the specific issue but highlighted his legislative achievements.</p>