Former professional football player Brock Olivo, who is running for Congress in the 9th District now held by Hulshof, said he showed up at the secretary of state’s office at 5:30 a.m. Yet Olivo said drew one of the highest numbers possible, making him unlikely to be listed first on the Republican primary ballot if anyone else files on the first day.

“I was chomping at the bit to get going, and obviously very excited,” Olivo said.

Olivo acknowledged that he has never voted before. But that’s not a requirement to run for office. And Olivo said part of his campaign would be to encourage other younger voters not to be as apathetic about politics.

Among the many who showed up early to file for office was Republican U.S. Rep. Sam Graves, of the 6th District in northwest Missouri. He’s expecting to face a tough challenge from former Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes, a Democrat.