(AP) — More than half of Nebraska’s population lives in and around Omaha and Lincoln, but the 2014 Nebraska governor’s race is filling up with candidates from rural areas and small towns.

The declared field includes Republican state Sens. Charlie Janssen of Fremont and Tom Carlson of Holdrege, who have both pointed to their small town backgrounds. Falls City businessman Charles Herbster is also expected to join the race, as is Republican Pete Rickets, who would be the only candidate from Omaha.

The Democratic race includes state Sen. Annette Dubas, of Fullerton, and Chuck Hassebrook, who lives in Lyons and heads the Center for Rural Affairs.

Lincoln political consultant Phil Young says central and western Nebraska still account for a huge chunk of the votes needed to win a statewide race.