TOPEKA — A lawsuit filed by Attorney General Kris Kobach to force Kansas leaders to turn over data requested by the federal government heated up this week with sharply worded filings. On Thursday, Kobach pushed back in his response: “Respondents have chosen to defy Kansas and federal law and risk millions of dollars that ultimately help the most vulnerable Kansans. They pointed to a California lawsuit in which multiple states contend the U.S. Department of Agriculture doesn’t have the right to the requested SNAP data. “Federal punishment aside, Respondents are state officers refusing to follow clear and direct commands within state law, so this mandamus action is ripe,” the Kobach filing said. “Moreover, the State possesses standing to bring its suit, which is anchored in state law that requires Respondents to cooperate with the federal government.