Massive Fundraising and Spending Surge in Kentucky’s US Senate Race

Basio badr

ago 2 days

Massive Fundraising and Spending Surge in Kentucky’s US Senate Race

Kentucky’s upcoming U.S. Senate race is witnessing a significant surge in fundraising and spending, even months ahead of the May 19, 2026 primary election. Key candidates from both major parties are engaged in intense financial campaigns to secure their positions.

Republican Race: Big Spending and Fundraising

The Republican primary, sparked by the retirement of Senator Mitch McConnell, has seen candidates raise millions. U.S. Representative Andy Barr has made significant financial strides, accumulating $1.8 million in the third quarter. Barr’s campaign ended with $6.6 million in cash, largely utilized for television advertising efforts.

Nate Morris Enters The Scene

Businessman Nate Morris has emerged as a formidable contender, injecting a $3 million personal loan into his campaign, contributing to a $4 million haul this quarter. Morris has spent heavily, with $1.6 million on TV advertisements alone, aiming to capitalize on his late entry into the race.

Influential Super PACs

Significant spending in the GOP primary also comes from Political Action Committees (PACs). Win it Back PAC, backed by prominent conservative donors, spent $2 million on ads against Barr, highlighting his McConnell connections. Simultaneously, Keep America Great PAC spent $2.4 million targeting Morris. Both PACs, however, have largely ignored frontrunner Daniel Cameron, the former Kentucky attorney general.

Democratic Candidates Strive For Funds

The Democratic primary has seen varying levels of financial backing. Joel Willett, a former CIA officer, leads financially despite launching his campaign in mid-September. His campaign raised $319,774, primarily from a significant personal loan. Willett’s campaign holds $325,158 in cash.

Pamela Stevenson and Logan Forsythe’s Efforts

Pamela Stevenson has raised $262,000 since January but holds only $24,863 in cash due to extensive spending on fundraising efforts.
Logan Forsythe, an attorney, joined the race later, raising nearly $40,000 within weeks.

Amy McGrath’s Entry

Notably, Amy McGrath, known for her substantial $90 million campaign in 2020 against McConnell, announced her candidacy for the open Senate seat this October. Her campaign finance details await the next reporting period.

As the race for Kentucky’s Senate seat heats up, candidates and PACs are poised for ongoing financial battles. Both parties are striving diligently to secure their positions, indicating a contentious and closely watched primary ahead.