Republicans torch Kobach for Senate run

By JAMES ARKIN 07/08/2019 03:34 PM EDT

Kris Kobach, the polarizing former Kansas secretary of state, launched a campaign for Senate on Monday — alarming Republicans who fear his candidacy could put the GOP-held open seat in jeopardy next fall.

Kobach is the third Republican to announce a run for the seat held by Sen. Pat Roberts, who is not seeking reelection next year. Kobach just lost a statewide race — the 2018 contest for governor to Democrat Laura Kelly — and some Republicans worry that the otherwise safe Kansas seat could become competitive if Kobach emerges from a GOP primary, which could imperil the party’s Senate majority.

Republican leaders’ preferred candidate is Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a former Kansas congressman and key ally to President Donald Trump. But Pompeo faces a personal dilemma over whether to remain in Trump’s cabinet or seek a Senate seat as he considers his own political future. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told POLITICO last month Pompeo was his “first choice” for the seat.

If Pompeo doesn’t run, a crowded field of candidates is likely — which could benefit Kobach, who is well known among the GOP electorate and narrowly won a competitive primary a year ago.

During his announcement, Kobach stood in front of a sign that read "Build the Wall" and touted his record as an immigration hawk and an ally to Trump, with whom he spoke on the topic as recently as last week, he said.

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https://www.politico.com/story/2019/07/08/republicans-kobach-senate-run-1573348