Topeka ? The association that represents Kansas county election officials has endorsed Elizabeth Ensley in the Republican race for secretary of state.

Ensley is the longtime election commissioner of Shawnee County.

The Kansas County Clerks and Election Officials Association announced its backing of Ensley on Thursday. The group said it’s never made an endorsement in the race before but believes Ensley has the knowledge and ability to handle the state job.

Ensley’s opponents, Kris Kobach (KOH’-bahk) and J.R. Claeys (klayz) were not impressed.

Claeys said the endorsement was expected because Ensley belongs to the group. Kobach said it shows Ensley represents the status quo.