Lexington, Kentucky, October 16, 2025
News Summary
Greg Plucinski, a retired pharmaceutical executive from Nicholasville, has declared his entry into the GOP primary for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District to succeed Rep. Andy Barr. He emphasizes addressing inflation, boosting American pharmaceutical manufacturing, and supporting local industries, including horse and bourbon. With other candidates already in the race, Plucinski aims to resonate with constituents through his business background and commitment to local interests as the primary approaches in May 2026.
Lexington, Kentucky – Greg Plucinski Joins GOP Primary Race for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District
Greg Plucinski has officially announced his candidacy for the GOP primary in Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District, aiming to succeed incumbent Rep. Andy Barr, who is running for the U.S. Senate in 2026. Plucinski, a retired pharmaceutical executive from Nicholasville, has not previously held elected office or participated in any elections.
The former president and chief operating officer of Summit Biosciences, a company that focuses on nasal spray products, Plucinski brings a business background to his campaign. Summit Biosciences was acquired by a larger pharmaceutical group last year after experiencing significant growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a notable $19 million expansion in 2020 that created 78 jobs in Kentucky. He has positioned himself as a supporter of President Donald Trump and aims to work for the interests of the people in Central Kentucky rather than outside influences or “special interests.”
In his campaign strategy, Plucinski stresses the importance of addressing inflation and boosting American manufacturing in the pharmaceutical industry. He considers the current lack of domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing a national security risk and believes it impacts affordability for consumers. His experience in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly during crucial moments like the pandemic, positions him as a knowledgeable candidate on these issues.
Having moved to the Lexington area in 2002 from Wisconsin, Plucinski earned his Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Kentucky in 2006. His campaign will also honor the focus of the outgoing representative, Andy Barr, on Kentucky’s prominent horse and bourbon industries.
Plucinski’s entry into the race adds to an already competitive GOP primary field that includes candidates such as Ryan Dotson, Deanna Gordon, and Ralph Alvarado, all of whom have been active participants in local party events. As the primary race develops, the candidates are actively aligning themselves with Trump’s policies, which have been a cornerstone of support among Republican voters in the district.
In contrast, the Democratic side is fielding a group of candidates that includes Zach Dembo, David Kloiber, Erin Petrey, and Cherlynn Stevenson. The race is particularly notable given the district’s previous Republican representation since 2012 and its demographic shifts, especially with a significant population in Fayette County that has leaned Democratic in past elections.
The outcome of this primary race is essential for both parties. Democrats view the 6th Congressional District as potentially competitive, especially considering the changing political landscape that could disrupt the traditional Republican hold over the area. As the campaign unfolds, economic issues will likely play a central role as both parties evaluate President Trump’s policies and its impacts on constituents.
With the primary set to take place in May 2026, candidates are busy positioning themselves to win the support of local voters while navigating a crowded field. Plucinski’s business expertise and commitment to local interests may resonate with constituents who prioritize economic growth and stability in this pivotal election cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Greg Plucinski?
Greg Plucinski is a retired pharmaceutical executive from Nicholasville who has entered the GOP primary for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District, seeking to replace Rep. Andy Barr.
What are Plucinski’s main campaign focuses?
His main focuses are addressing inflation, increasing American manufacturing in the pharmaceutical industry, and continuing support for Kentucky’s horse and bourbon industries.
What is Plucinski’s political background?
Plucinski has never held elected office or participated in an election before this congressional race. He has a background as a pharmaceutical executive and is a supporter of Donald Trump.
Who are the other candidates in the GOP primary?
Other GOP candidates include Ryan Dotson, Deanna Gordon, and Ralph Alvarado, who have all been active in local Republican events.
What is the significance of the 6th Congressional District?
The 6th Congressional District has been Republican-held since 2012, but demographic shifts, particularly in Fayette County, suggest it may be contested in the upcoming election.
Key Features of the GOP Primary Race
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Candidate | Greg Plucinski |
| Current Position | Retired Pharmaceutical Executive |
| Opponents | Ryan Dotson, Deanna Gordon, Ralph Alvarado |
| Main Focus Areas | Inflation, American Manufacturing in Pharmaceuticals, Kentucky Industries |
| Previous Representation | Republican since 2012 |
| Next Election Date | May 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum News 1
- Kentucky.com
- WKYT
- Forward Kentucky
- LEX18
- Wikipedia: Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District
- Google Search: Kentucky 6th Congressional District elections
- Google Scholar: Kentucky 6th Congressional District politics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentucky
- Google News: Kentucky 6th Congressional District
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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