Kansas Sen. Sam Brownback plans a campaign stop today in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Topeka ? Long shot.

That was the term used by political observers Monday to describe U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback’s bid to become president of the United States.

“It seems sitting here in Kansas in early December of ’06 that it’s an awfully long stretch to think that that could happen,” Kansas Republican Party Chairman Tim Shallenburger said.

Shallenburger said Brownback’s success might depend on how the media treat Kansas’ senior Republican senator.

“He could be portrayed as a right-wing extremist, although I don’t believe he is one. He is a mild-mannered, very good-hearted person,” he said.

Brownback opposes abortion, supports a federal constitutional amendment banning gay marriage and wants a flat tax rate and term limits for judges and members of Congress.

Kansas University political science professor Allan Cigler said Brownback lacks the necessary funds to make a significant run for the White House.

“I think the nomination process is mostly about money, and I think he is disadvantaged there,” Cigler said.

Cigler said Brownback believes he is the candidate to appeal to the Christian base of the Republican Party, but that may not be enough.

“He is a hardworking, smart man, whether you agree with him or not,” Cigler said. “He’s always struck me as a person who is always trying to find out who he is.”