(AP) - Two rural Kentucky sheriffs say Rand Paul's campaign has wrongly claimed they are supporting the Republican for U.S. Senate.

The sheriffs -- Kevin Johnson of Clay County and Gus Skinner of McCreary County -- are both Republicans from southeastern Kentucky.

They told The Associated Press that they haven't endorsed anyone although a Paul campaign press release issued this week says they are among 10 current or incoming sheriffs declaring public support for the tea party favorite.

The campaign touted support among sheriffs to counter attacks from Democrat Jack Conway that Paul is soft on fighting drugs and crime.

The Paul campaign said Friday it was looking into the matter but had no other immediate response.