Two others seek GOP nod for U.S. Senate race in Kansas

Alvin Zahnter of Russell, Kan., and D.J. Smith of Osawatomie, Kan., are also on the Republican primary ballot for the U.S. Senate seat.

Zahnter, 57, is an Army veteran and is disabled. He’s a strong supporter of gun rights, and also says states should be free to legalize marijuana.

“People, and I’m talking about partially Pat Roberts, have not really taken for years all of our concerns to the White House,” he said. “Back door deals don’t cut it with me.”

Smith served on the Osawatomie City Council, according to her campaign website. She has 17 grandchildren.

“I am running because I am sick and tired of seeing our nation’s Constitution, our freedoms and rights, assaulted and undermined by an un-American socialistic agenda that’s taken root in our nation’s capitol,” the website says.

She did not return phone calls seeking comment.

Dave Helling, dhelling@kcstar.com

This story was originally published July 17, 2014 at 8:32 PM with the headline "Two others seek GOP nod for U.S. Senate race in Kansas."