Topeka ? U.S. Rep. Lynn Jenkins, R-Kan., on Tuesday filed for re-election, and said the public is mad at both major political parties.

“The American people seem to be very angry with the Democrat majority in Congress, as well they should,” Jenkins said, but added, “Let’s be honest, they don’t like Republicans any better.”

Jenkins, finishing her first term representing the 2nd District, which includes west Lawrence, will face state Sen. Dennis Pyle, R-Hiawatha, in the Aug. 3 Republican Party primary.

Pyle has said Jenkins is not conservative enough, and has criticized her position on abortion. Pyle opposes abortion, while Jenkins supports a woman’s right to choose abortion in cases of rape, incest or if the life of the mother is in jeopardy.

The only Democrat who has filed in the race is Thomas Koch of Leavenworth. Koch, a part-time janitor, has said he would represent everyday Kansans.

“I have been a teacher and a student, a renter and a landlord, an office worker and a factory worker and a businessperson. If you are tired of being ‘represented’ by career politicians or other members of the power elite, then I offer an alternative,” Koch said.

Jenkins said her main campaign issues will be fiscal responsibility, a strong military and reducing the reach of the federal government.

She opposed an increase in federal matching dollars on Medicaid even though Kansas government is in dire need of the health care funding.

“The package that came before the House was not paid for,” she said. “It continued to kick the can down the road, and I’m tired of looking at my kids and trying to explain to them why we’re not paying for the things that we are enjoying today, and why I am going to be sending them and their kids the bill. I’m done with that.”