Rep. Andy Barr Seeks Senate Seat Following McConnell's Retirement

Republican Rep. Andy Barr of Kentucky has announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell, aligning himself closely with former President Donald Trump and vowing to support conservative policies such as cutting taxes, opposing ESG initiatives, and enforcing stricter immigration measures. Barr's campaign launch video emphasized opposition to progressive social policies and highlighted his intent to work with Trump, while also pledging to protect Kentucky values and jobs. The entry of Barr, a sitting congressman, makes the GOP primary highly competitive, as he faces former state Attorney General Daniel Cameron, who had previously been considered McConnell's protégé. Barr has quickly garnered endorsements from prominent House Republicans, including Steve Scalise and Elise Stefanik, signaling strong support within the party. Kentucky remains a reliably Republican state at the federal level, though Democrats have succeeded in statewide races, making the 2026 Senate race one to watch. McConnell, who served as Senate GOP leader for 18 years, is retiring after a historic 42-year tenure.