Kobach launches US Senate bid in Kansas; some in GOP wary

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kris Kobach, nationally known as an advocate of tough immigration policies and a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump, launched a campaign Monday for the U.S. Senate in Kansas amid tepid support from some Republicans who voiced concern that his recent loss in the governor's race could threaten the party's majority.

Kobach filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission creating a campaign committee for a run at the Republican nomination next year and planned to make a speech Monday afternoon in Leavenworth, outside the Kansas City area. He is seeking the seat held by four-term GOP Sen. Pat Roberts, who is not running for re-election.

Kobach, the former Kansas secretary of state, confirmed in January that he was considering the Senate race, shortly after Roberts announced his plans. Some Republicans also speculated that he could land a prominent job in Trump's administration, but that hasn't materialized.

A spokesman for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the political arm of the Senate GOP, made clear that the group opposes Kobach's candidacy. Republicans would be highly favored to retain Roberts' seat and they don't want to risk putting it in play as they defend their 53-47 majority in the chamber in next year's elections.

"Just last year, Kris Kobach ran and lost to a Democrat," said the spokesman, Jesse Hunt. "Now, he wants to do the same and simultaneously put President Trump's presidency and Senate majority at risk. We know Kansans won't let that happen and we look forward to watching the Republican candidate they do choose win next fall."

Even though Kobach's candidacy is likely to upset some fellow Republicans, he retains support among conservatives, particularly advocates of tough policies against illegal immigration. Kobach has long alienated GOP moderates, but...