(WKYT) – Charles Booker has won the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate.
The field included former Kentucky State Rep. Charles Booker, retired Marine fighter pilot Amy McGrath, horse trainer Dale Romans and current State Rep. Pamela Stevenson.
Both Booker and McGrath unsuccessfully ran for the Senate in previous election cycles.
Charles Booker will face the Republican nominee in the fall for the right to succeed retiring Senator Mitch McConnell.
McConnell announced he would not seek re-election in February 2025.
Booker released the following statement following his win:
“Kentucky, I love you. I cannot thank you enough. We locked arms and began the hard work of building a Kentucky that works for all of us, not just a special few. We are building a Kentucky where the dignity of work is respected by paying folks a living wage. Where we all have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare.
Tonight, we celebrate. Tomorrow, we get back to work because we still have more work ahead, and together, we are going to make history. This is a campaign for every Kentuckian: Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, first-time voters, and forgotten voters. No matter your political background, your faith, your class, your zip code, or where you call home, this campaign is for you. It’s for our farmers, small business owners, students, teachers, seniors, retirees, working families, and everyone from the Hood to the Holler.
We are building a broad coalition of Kentucky voters who are fed up with politics as usual, tired of being left behind, and ready for something different. This is for all of our families and for the future. We are going to flip this seat in November and when we do that, we’re going to flip the U.S. Senate, and we are finally going to make sure the government we pay for works for us.”
McGrath also released a statement following Booker’s win:
“Thank you, Kentucky. While tonight’s result is not the one we hoped for, I leave this race with gratitude in my heart.
It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to travel across Kentucky, listen to people’s stories, and stand alongside so many thoughtful, compassionate, and determined Kentuckians who care deeply about the future of this Commonwealth.
I want to congratulate Charles Booker and wish him success in the important work ahead. I know our shared values surrounding fairness, opportunity, dignity, and service will unite us all as we fight for this open seat in November.
To every volunteer, supporter, donor, and friend who believed in me: thank you. Your kindness, encouragement, and commitment meant more than I can fully express. I am profoundly grateful for the trust you placed in me.
While this particular chapter ends tonight, my work across Kentucky and the nation does not. Public service is bigger than politics, and I will continue working with people and the organizations we’ve built to preserve democracy and fight for all of us.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”