TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A protest by Kansas regulators against federal efforts to limit carbon emissions is giving Republican Gov. Sam Brownback an opportunity in his close re-election race to tie his Democratic rival to President Barack Obama.

The utility-regulating Kansas Corporation Commission said Wednesday that it is asking the federal Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw a proposed emissions rule for power plants. Its staff is filing a 40-page report suggesting the rule would force increases in electric rates.

Brownback appointed the commission’s three members, and the conservative governor argues that Democratic challenger Paul Davis wouldn’t fight the rule if he’s elected.

Davis’ spokesman said the Democrat sees the EPA as heavy-handed and Brownback is offering only rhetoric.

Their race appeared to be a toss-up heading into Tuesday’s election.