Topeka ? A conservative Republican was removed from the Senate Ways and Means Committee for what was described as unproductive behavior.

Sen. Tim Huelskamp, R-Fowler, was removed Wednesday — two days after he led a failed effort to place a conservative ally in the Senate leadership. The action was taken by the Senate Organization, Calendar and Rules Committee.

“Sen. Huelskamp has been unwilling to apply constructive criticism and positive solutions to the myriad of budget problems of the state,” said Senate President Dave Kerr, R-Hutchinson. “We have no time to deal with anyone who is unwilling to be part of the solution.”

Huelskamp was replaced by Sen. Bill Bunten, R-Topeka, who previously served 28 years in the House, including eight years as chairman of the budget committee.

Huelskamp said he was removed “because I wasn’t a team player.” He had nominated Sen. Stan Clark, R-Oakley, as Senate vice president. Clark lost on a 30-9 vote.

Earlier, Senate Republicans had settled on Sen. John Vratil of Leawood for that position, which opened when Sandy Praeger was elected insurance commissioner.

Normally, Republicans, who hold a 30-10 margin, simply ratify their decision on the Senate floor.

Huelskamp said he also was removed because he didn’t support Kerr last year in his failed bid for the GOP nomination for governor.

Huelskamp defended his abilities and his willingness to curb government spending in committee and on the Senate floor.