GOP headache: Kansas poised for independent bid for governor

By JOHN HANNA
AP Political Writer

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A hard-right Kansas lawmaker who’s clashed with Republican leaders is poised to win a spot on the November ballot as an independent candidate for governor with help from allies of Democratic incumbent Laura Kelly. State Sen. Dennis Pyle, of Hiawatha, submitted petitions with nearly 8,900 signatures to the Kansas secretary of state’s office Monday for verification that the signers are registered voters, as required. State law requires 5,000 valid signatures. Pyle was a Republican until June, and his bid would complicate presumed GOP nominee and state Attorney General Derek Schmidt’s efforts to unseat Kelly. Some Democrats are hoping Pyle and Schmidt split the conservative GOP vote, boosting Kelly’s chances.