THOMAS BEAUMONT, The Associated Press

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — Republican Sen. Pat Roberts and independent challenger Greg Orman are traversing eastern Kansas to rally moderates, a demographic that’s suddenly the key to the election in this typically Republican state.

Roberts met with veterans Sunday in Johnson County, the most populous and politically diverse.

Former Sen. Bob Dole was with him again and urged voters in Overland Park to look carefully at Orman’s background. The wealthy Olathe businessman has voted for and contributed to both Republicans and Democrats.

Orman, who state polls show holds a slight lead, was rallied voters in Wichita and planned a final gathering at a park in Prairie Village in the Kansas City suburbs.