Trump endorses Ralph Alvarado for U.S. House seat in Kentucky – The Courier-Journal
President Donald Trump has endorsed Ralph Alvarado, a frontrunner in the Republican primary for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District, to fill the shoes of current U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, whom the president endorsed in the race for U.S. Senate just minutes before.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Alvarado was a “true friend to MAGA.” “As your next Congressman, Ralph will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Promote our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, Advance American Energy DOMINANCE, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Support our Brave Military/Veterans, and Protect our always under siege Second Amendment,” the post read.
In a flurry of Truth Social posts on May 1, the president shook up Kentucky’s contentious U.S. Senate race, announcing he’d asked businessman Nate Morris to drop out of the campaign to serve as an ambassador for his administration, before quickly endorsing Barr. That leaves Barr and former Attorney General Daniel Cameron as the frontrunners in the Republican primary to replace U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell.
Alvarado is no stranger to statewide races. In 2019, he was on the ticket with former Gov. Matt Bevin. He also served two and a half terms in the Kentucky state Senate representing District 28, which covers Bath, Clark, Menifee, Montgomery and part of Fayette County. Alvarado left office in 2023 to become commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Health.
In a written statement to The Courier Journal, Alvarado thanked Trump for his endorsement and promised to “fight tirelessly for Kentucky.” Alvarado also mentioned his 2016 speech at the Republican National Convention, where he was one of just three Hispanic speakers.
“This is one of the greatest moments of my professional career,” Alvarado said. “Nearly ten years ago, I had the honor of addressing the world on behalf of one of the most consequential presidents in our nation’s history, a leader who has fought tirelessly to protect our strength, our safety, and our prosperity. Today, I am deeply grateful for his trust and support as I seek to serve in Congress and help advance the America First agenda.”
Alvarado is one of several candidates in a crowded Republican primary for the district, which encompasses Fayette and several other counties.
Although held by Barr, a Republican, some Democrats see the district as within reach. From 2004 to 2012, it was held by Democrat Ben Chandler before being flipped by Barr.
Other notable names running for the seat include:
This story was updated with new information.
Reach reporter Keely Doll at kdoll@courierjournal.com or follow her on X at @keely_doll.