TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A political action committee representing Kansas Highway Patrol troopers has endorsed Democratic challenger Paul Davis in the Kansas governor’s race.

Davis has a Statehouse news conference Thursday to publicize his backing from the Kansas State Troopers Association PAC.

The Democrat is seeking to deny Republican Gov. Sam Brownback a second, four-year term, and the race appears to be a toss-up.

Brownback spokesman John Milburn said the governor respects the work of the patrol but it’s not surprising that a union like the troopers’ association would back a Democrat. Governors appoint the patrol’s superintendent.

The troopers’ PAC said it is endorsing Davis because he has a strong record on public safety issues as a Kansas House member.

Brownback has portrayed Davis as a liberal and soft on criminal justice issues.