Source: Joseph Aistrup, 785-532-6900, jaistrup@k-state.edu
http://www.k-state.edu/media/mediaguide/bios/aistrupbio.html
Photo available. Contact media@k-state.edu or 785-532-2535.
News release prepared by: Andrew Morris, 785-532-2535, media@k-state.edu

Friday, July 30, 2010

KANSAS PRIMARY A RACE BETWEEN REPUBLICANS, SAYS K-STATE PROFESSOR

MANHATTAN -- Some races on the Republican side in the Aug. 3 Kansas primary will determine the results of the November election, according to Kansas State University political science expert Joe Aistrup.

"Whoever wins the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate race will win the general election," said Aistrup, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of political science.

Democrats don't stand a chance in the race since they aren't as well-known or well-funded, he said.

Todd Tiahrt and Jerry Moran, both current U.S. congressmen, are seeking the GOP nod for the Senate seat being vacated by Sam Brownback. Tiahrt represents the state's 4th Congressional District, while Moran represents the 1st District.

"This race will be a battle of who is the purest conservative," Aistrup said.

Moran has a sizable cash advantage and had an early lead in the polls, according to Aistrup. More recent polls, though, show Tiahrt closing the gap. Tiahrt's campaign went on the attack in June, and Moran has since countered. But while Tiahrt is closing in, there may not be enough time, Aistrup said.

"It's been an aggressively waged battle with much negative advertising. Voters will be thankful when this campaign is over," he said.

Brownback is running for governor of Kansas. He's expected to win the GOP nomination and then face Tom Holland in November. Aistrup said Holland is not as well-financed or well-known as Brownback.

The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 2.