Chuck Ahner of Overland Park today became the first Republican to announce his candidacy for the 3rd Congressional District, which includes east Lawrence.

If successful in the GOP primary, Ahner would face four-term Democratic incumbent Dennis Moore in November 2006.

Ahner, 39, is a senior vice president of Midland Loan Services. He has run two failed campaigns for the Blue Valley School Board.

Ahner is a graduate of West Point and received a master’s of business degree from Boston College.

He said his military and business experience were vital qualifications to serving in Congress to improve the economy and fight terrorists.