Lexington, Kentucky, October 19, 2025
News Summary
The race for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District is intensifying with an influx of candidates and fundraising activities ahead of the primaries. Incumbent Rep. Andy Barr’s Senate run has paved the way for Republican candidates like Ralph Alvarado, Ryan Dotson, and Deanna Gordon, alongside Democratic challenger Zach Dembo. Alvarado leads fundraising efforts significantly, while Democrats are also securing substantial support. The evolving political landscape is marked by rising stakes as candidates tackle issues like Medicaid cuts in their campaigns leading up to May 2026.
Lexington, Kentucky – The race for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District seat is heating up, with an increase in candidates and fundraising efforts as the election approaches. Currently held by Rep. Andy Barr, who is running for the U.S. Senate, the district has attracted three Republican candidates, each aiming to outperform the others in fundraising and support.
Leading the fundraising efforts among all candidates is Republican Ralph Alvarado, who raised approximately $377,000 from mid-July to September. This total positions Alvarado as a frontrunner, bolstered by contributions from notable donors, including former Kentucky Governor Ernie Fletcher. Alvarado concluded the quarter with $321,000 in cash on hand, underscoring his strong financial backing compared to his competitors.
In addition to Alvarado, Republican State Rep. Ryan Dotson from Winchester and State Rep. Deanna Gordon from Richmond have also declared their candidacies. Dotson has invested significantly in his campaign, loaning $200,000 of his own money, leading to a total campaign war chest of $310,000. Gordon, on the other hand, raised $358,000 overall, though a substantial $268,000 came from her own funds. She ended the quarter with $314,000 in cash on hand, closely competing with Dotson.
On the Democratic side, former federal prosecutor Zach Dembo has emerged as the front-runner, raising $289,000 in his initial quarter. His fundraising efforts have drawn support from prominent Democratic donors and parties based in Washington, D.C. Following Dembo, former state Rep. Cherlynn Stevenson reported $135,000 in contributions, while Erin Petrey and David Kloiber raised $65,000 and $38,000, respectively. Kloiber’s financial support included a $30,000 personal loan to boost his campaign.
The candidates are harnessing their networks of local business owners, political figures, and community leaders to build support—reflected in the diverse funding sources being tapped. The significance of these financial efforts indicates a competitive landscape as the primaries approach in May 2026.
The evolving political scenery in Central Kentucky is marked by active efforts from both parties alongside emerging issues such as Medicaid cuts, which are becoming central campaign topics as candidates respond to recent legislative initiatives by the GOP. As the candidates continue to establish their donor networks and engage voters, the implications for the upcoming election remain significant.
In comparison to Alvarado’s fundraising approach, Dotson and Gordon have relied more heavily on personal loans to their campaigns, indicating varied strategies among the Republican contenders. Notably, Republican Thomas Massie, who represents Kentucky’s 4th District, raised $768,000 during the same period—his best quarter to date.
As the deadline for the candidate filing approaches, the stakes are high in Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District. Voters can expect a race characterized by robust fundraising, heightened competition, and a focus on pressing issues as the election nears.
FAQs
Who are the main candidates for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District?
The main candidates include Republicans Ralph Alvarado, Ryan Dotson, and Deanna Gordon, alongside Democrats Zach Dembo and Cherlynn Stevenson.
What has been the fundraising outcome for the candidates?
Ralph Alvarado topped the fundraising efforts with approximately $377,000 raised, while Zach Dembo led the Democratic side with $289,000. Both Ryan Dotson and Deanna Gordon raised significant amounts through personal loans.
What issues are central to the candidates’ campaigns?
Medicaid cuts are emerging as a critical campaign issue for candidates from both parties, reflecting ongoing national discussions on healthcare policy.
Fundraising Comparison Chart
| Candidate | Party | Funds Raised | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ralph Alvarado | Republican | $377,000 | $321,000 |
| Ryan Dotson | Republican | $310,000 | $310,000 |
| Deanna Gordon | Republican | $358,000 | $314,000 |
| Zach Dembo | Democrat | $289,000 | N/A |
| Cherlynn Stevenson | Democrat | $135,000 | N/A |
| Erin Petrey | Democrat | $65,000 | N/A |
| David Kloiber | Democrat | $38,000 | N/A |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Governor Andy Beshear Urges Democrats to Rebuild Trust in New Hampshire
Rep. Andy Barr Announces Bid for Senate Seat in Kentucky
Amy McGrath Announces Senate Bid in Kentucky
Amy McGrath Launches Second Campaign for U.S. Senate Seat
Amy McGrath Launches Campaign for U.S. Senate Seat
Madison County Expands Educational Programs and Facilities
Additional Resources
- Spectrum News 1: Two Candidates Join KY-06 Race
- Wikipedia: Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District
- Kentucky.com: Central Kentucky Congressional Candidates Sound Off
- Google Search: Kentucky 6th Congressional District
- Kentucky Lantern: Another Republican Enters Race
- Encyclopedia Britannica: United States Congress
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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