Louisville, Kentucky, December 4, 2025
Former state representative Charles Booker has declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat held by retiring Mitch McConnell. This marks Booker’s third attempt at the Senate, focusing on progressive policies like universal health care, affordable housing, and a guaranteed minimum income. With major Democratic contenders including Amy McGrath and Dale Romans, the primary race is set for May 2026, followed by the general election in November. Booker’s platform emphasizes government accountability and community support.
Louisville, Kentucky – Former state representative Charles Booker has declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by retiring Senator Mitch McConnell. This will be Booker’s third bid for the Senate position, having previously run in 2020 and 2022.
In a campaign video published on December 3, 2025, Booker reiterated his dedication to progressive initiatives. His platform includes proposals for universal health care, affordable housing, and a guaranteed minimum income of $40,000 for a 40-hour workweek. Other advocated policies entail universal child care and significant energy reforms.
Booker emphasized his history of advocacy across various Kentucky communities, highlighting support for coal miners in Harlan County and involvement in social justice movements in Louisville. He envisions a government that prioritizes serving the populace over oppression.
Booker enters a competitive Democratic primary that also includes former Marine fighter pilot Amy McGrath, who defeated him in the 2020 primary, and horse trainer Dale Romans. The Republican field features former Attorney General Daniel Cameron, Representative Andy Barr, and businessman Nate Morris vying for the same Senate seat.
The upcoming 2026 United States Senate election in Kentucky is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with primary elections taking place on May 19, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Charles Booker?
Charles Booker is a former state representative from Louisville, Kentucky, who has previously run for the U.S. Senate in 2020 and 2022. He is known for his progressive policies and advocacy for various communities across Kentucky.
What are Charles Booker’s key policy proposals?
Booker’s platform includes universal health care, affordable housing, a guaranteed minimum income of $40,000 for a 40-hour workweek, universal child care, and energy reforms.
Who are the other candidates in the 2026 Senate race?
In the Democratic primary, candidates include Amy McGrath and Dale Romans. The Republican primary features Daniel Cameron, Andy Barr, and Nate Morris.
When is the 2026 U.S. Senate election in Kentucky?
The general election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with primary elections on May 19, 2026.
Key Features of the 2026 Kentucky Senate Race
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incumbent Senator | Mitch McConnell, retiring after 40 years in the Senate. |
| Democratic Candidates | Charles Booker, Amy McGrath, Dale Romans, Logan Forsythe, Joel Willett, Pamela Stevenson. |
| Republican Candidates | Daniel Cameron, Andy Barr, Nate Morris, Michael Faris, Wende Kennedy, Andrew Shelley. |
| Primary Election Date | May 19, 2026. |
| General Election Date | November 3, 2026. |
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