Kansas judges question why Democrat can't withdraw

By JOHN HANNA, Associated Press

Sep 16, 2014 10:36 AM CDT

Copied

Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach, center, walks with members of his staff and legal team into the Kansas Judicial Center to file documents in a legal dispute before the state Supreme Court over the Democratic nominee's attempt to get off the ballot in the U.S. Senate race, Monday, Sept. 15, 2014,... (Associated Press)

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Several Kansas Supreme Court justices are questioning why a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate who wants his name off the ballot should be prevented from doing so by the state's chief election officer.

The court heard arguments Tuesday in a case that has national implications because it could affect the battle for control of the Senate.

Democrat Chad Taylor's withdrawal could help independent candidate Greg Orman's chances to unseat vulnerable Republican incumbent Sen. Pat Roberts.

Republican Secretary of State Kris Kobach ruled that Taylor's name must remain on the ballot because he didn't comply with state election law.

Taylor has not explained why he withdrew, but several justices asked whether it was sufficient for the Democrat to simply cite the relevant law in his withdrawal letter.