Kobach criticized after riding in parade with replica gun

SHAWNEE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Republican governor candidate Kris Kobach rode in a parade on a jeep with a large replica gun mounted on it, prompting criticism on social media that the display was inappropriate at a time of school shootings.

The sight of Kobach in the red, white and blue-decorated jeep at the Old Shawnee Days parade Saturday morning stunned some onlookers, the Kansas City Star reported .

Shawnee Community Christian Church pastor Johnny Lewis says there were audible gasps from some people watching the parade.

A spokesman for Kobach, who is Kansas Secretary of State, says the gun was a replica.

The city of Shawnee issued a statement apologizing if the gun made anyone feel unsafe and promising not to allow something similar in future.

Shawnee is a suburb of Kansas City.

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Information from: The Kansas City Star, http://www.kcstar.com