SALINA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas state representative says the nearly half-million-dollar condominium he owns in Lawrence is just where he stays during legislative sessions, while his official residence is at his sister’s house in Salina.

Republican Rep. J.R. Claeys tells The Salina Journal he blames Democrat Gary Swartzendruber for raising questions about his residency because his opponent can’t win on the issues.

Claeys acknowledges owning the Lawrence condominium, but says it’s normal for lawmakers to rent an apartment or buy a place there to stay while the Legislature is in session.

The Douglas County appraiser lists Claeys’ condo as being valued for tax purposes at $433,400.

Still, Claeys insists he spends most of the year living with his sister, her husband and their three children in Salina, in the district he represents.