Lexington, Kentucky, December 2, 2025
Cherlynn Stevenson, a former state representative from Lexington, has filed to run for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District in the upcoming elections. With a focus on affordable healthcare and job creation, Stevenson aims to represent the concerns of rural communities while competing against Republican candidates. Her campaign strategy emphasizes addressing everyday issues and engaging with voters directly. The district has a history of Republican representation, but recent shifts could signal a competitive race ahead.
Lexington, Kentucky – Cherlynn Stevenson Files for Congressional Campaign in Kentucky’s 6th District
Cherlynn Stevenson, a former state representative from Lexington, has officially filed to run for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District in the 2026 United States House of Representatives elections. This seat is currently held by Republican Andy Barr, who is vacating it to run for the U.S. Senate.
Background and Political Career
Born and raised in Hindman, Kentucky, Stevenson served as a member of the Kentucky House of Representatives from 2019 to 2025, representing the 88th district. During her tenure, she held the position of Minority Caucus Chair. In the 2024 election, she was narrowly defeated by Republican Vanessa Grossl. Stevenson is a graduate of Morehead State University with a degree in behavioral sciences. Prior to her political career, she worked in healthcare, manufacturing, and owned a small business. She is the daughter of a public school teacher and a coal miner, experiences that have shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by rural communities.
Campaign Announcement
On May 13, 2025, Stevenson announced her candidacy for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District. She emphasized her commitment to addressing issues such as affordable healthcare, job creation, and reducing the cost of living. Stevenson expressed her intention to focus on everyday issues rather than political division, aiming to meet voters where they are and listen to their concerns.
District Overview
Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District encompasses central Kentucky, including the cities of Lexington, Richmond, and Georgetown. The district has been represented by Republican Andy Barr since 2013. In the 2024 presidential election, the district favored Donald Trump by a margin of 15 points. However, Democratic Governor Andy Beshear won the district in the 2023 gubernatorial election. The last Democrat to represent the district in Congress was Ben Chandler, who served until 2010.
Electoral Landscape
With Barr’s decision to run for the U.S. Senate, the 6th District seat is open for the 2026 election. Stevenson faces competition from Republican state Representative Ryan Dotson of Winchester, who has also declared his candidacy. The race is expected to be competitive, with both parties aiming to secure the seat.
Recent Developments
In September 2024, an ethics complaint was filed against Stevenson regarding her co-ownership of a Frankfort condo with a lobbyist. The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission dismissed the complaint in October 2024, stating it was meritless and politically motivated.
Conclusion
Cherlynn Stevenson’s official filing for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District marks the beginning of what is anticipated to be a closely watched race in the 2026 elections. Her background in state politics and her focus on key issues affecting Kentuckians will be central to her campaign as she seeks to represent the district in Washington, D.C.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Cherlynn Stevenson?
Cherlynn Stevenson is a former state representative from Lexington, Kentucky, who served in the Kentucky House of Representatives from 2019 to 2025, representing the 88th district. She held the position of Minority Caucus Chair during her tenure.
What is Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District?
Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District is located in central Kentucky and includes the cities of Lexington, Richmond, and Georgetown. The district has been represented by Republican Andy Barr since 2013.
What are the key issues in Stevenson’s campaign?
Stevenson’s campaign focuses on affordable healthcare, job creation, and reducing the cost of living. She aims to address everyday issues rather than political division, emphasizing the importance of meeting voters where they are and listening to their concerns.
Who are Stevenson’s opponents in the 2026 election?
Stevenson faces competition from Republican state Representative Ryan Dotson of Winchester, who has also declared his candidacy for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District.
What was the outcome of the ethics complaint against Stevenson?
An ethics complaint was filed against Stevenson in September 2024 regarding her co-ownership of a Frankfort condo with a lobbyist. The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission dismissed the complaint in October 2024, stating it was meritless and politically motivated.
Key Features of Cherlynn Stevenson’s Congressional Campaign
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Background | Former state representative from Lexington, served in the Kentucky House of Representatives from 2019 to 2025, representing the 88th district. Held the position of Minority Caucus Chair during her tenure. |
| Campaign Focus | Affordable healthcare, job creation, and reducing the cost of living. Aims to address everyday issues rather than political division, emphasizing the importance of meeting voters where they are and listening to their concerns. |
| District Overview | Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District encompasses central Kentucky, including the cities of Lexington, Richmond, and Georgetown. The district has been represented by Republican Andy Barr since 2013. |
| Electoral Landscape | With Barr’s decision to run for the U.S. Senate, the 6th District seat is open for the 2026 election. Stevenson faces competition from Republican state Representative Ryan Dotson of Winchester, who has also declared his candidacy. |
| Recent Developments | In September 2024, an ethics complaint was filed against Stevenson regarding her co-ownership of a Frankfort condo with a lobbyist. The Kentucky Legislative Ethics Commission dismissed the complaint in October 2024, stating it was meritless and politically motivated. |
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