(MSC News)--Kansas Senator Dennis Pyle is entering the race for Congress.

The rural Hiawatha Republican, who currently serves the 1st District of Kansas, announced Wednesday that he will seek the 2nd District Congressional seat.

In a news release sent to MSC News, Pyle said a conservative voice, who understands the needs of rural Kansans, is needed in that role. "There is a lot of talk about the number of candidates in the primary, but one thing is certain—no matter how crowded the field, there is always room for a genuine, proven conservative who represents rural Kansas values. Having been a candidate in this district before, I have had the opportunity to travel the district and understand the unique needs and principles of the second congressional district.”

Pyle, who is currently in his 4th term as Kansas Senator, said his record speaks for itself. "My record demonstrates that I am a genuine and reliable conservative. Conservatives in the 2nd district are still looking for someone to unite behind. Most voters base their choices on how a candidate's rhetoric matches with his record. With me, they will find no differences. They are waiting for a candidate that does more than just vote correctly. They want someone who will stand for conservative values, even when it means going up against the establishment. My record proves that I am that candidate. I am not afraid for voters to take a look at every single vote. I opposed the Graves, Parkinson, and Brownback tax hikes. Unfortunately others in this race did not."

The 2nd District Congressional seat is currently held by Republican Lynn Jenkins, who is not seeking re-election.

Pyle unsuccessfully challenged Jenkins for the position in the 2010 Republican primary election.

Six Republicans have already filed to seek election to the seat. Among them are two from the local area, Vernon Fields, of Basehor, and Steve Fitzgerald, of Leavenworth.

They are joined in seeking their party's nod during the August 7th primary election by Kevin Jones, Doug Mays, Caryn Tyson, and Steve Watkins.