Kansas: Orman Qualifies

​Independent gubernatorial candidate Greg Orman, who is now trying to portray himself as a centrist after running from the left when he opposed Sen. Pat Roberts (R) in 2014, has officially qualified for the general election ballot.  Mr. Orman has submitted the proper number of valid petition signatures necessary to securing a ballot position.  He joins a three-way race with Secretary of State Kris Kobach (R) and state Sen. Laura Kelly (D-Topeka), the two major party nominees. 
 
The qualification did not stop Democrats from challenging his status, however.  A complaint, in an attempt to bar Orman from running, was filed on Monday.  The plaintiffs contend that many of the Orman signatures are invalid.  Democrats are fearful that Orman will take enough votes away from Kelly so as to allow Kobach to win with only a plurality vote.  Thus, launching their long shot move to try and remove him.
 
An objections panel comprised of representatives from the Secretary of State, Attorney General, and Lt. Governor’s offices will hear the complaint and make a subsequent ruling.