Topeka ? The Kansas Association of Realtors has endorsed Democratic incumbent Dennis McKinney in the state treasurer’s race.

The association represents about 8,000 people in the industry and credits McKinney with improving a state home loan program.

McKinney is running for a full term as treasurer after being appointed to the post in late 2008. He has also been endorsed by the Kansas Farm Bureau and the Kansas Agri-Business Council.

Republican challenger Ron Estes has the endorsement of Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, who was state treasurer from 2003 to 2008. Jenkins resigned to take her seat in Congress, allowing McKinney’s appointment by then-Democratic Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

Estes currently serves as the Sedgwick County treasurer.