Former key officials for prominent Kansas Republicans will help Democrat Jim Slattery try to defeat U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kan.

Nelson and Judy Krueger of Lawrence will serve as co-chairs for the Slattery for Senate Steering Committee.

“I’m pleased Nelson and Judy are joining my campaign,” Slattery, a former U.S. representative, said. “I’m determined to be a senator who will help unify our country by working across party lines to promote the best ideas to solve America’s urgent problems.”

Judy Krueger was campaign manager during the primary for the Bill Graves for Governor campaign, and served as Secretary of Appointments and deputy chief of staff during Graves’ two terms as governor.

“I believe we need a change of direction in Washington,” she said. “Jim Slattery represents the best opportunity for Kansans to get beyond partisanship and to participate in effecting change.”

Nelson Krueger served as Dole’s Kansas Administrative Assistant. He said: “Having worked with Jim Slattery since the 1980s, I have found Jim to be open-minded and a man of his word. Jim’s commitment to making change and his enthusiasm are refreshing. I’m excited to be supporting a man who doesn’t burn out, wear out or sell out.”

Slattery faces Lee Jones in the Democratic Party primary.