LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Former Kentucky state Rep. Charles Booker entered the race for U.S. Senate, launching a campaign focused on improving conditions for working Kentuckians.
Booker, who previously led the Governor's Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, grew up in west Louisville and has often highlighted his experience living in one of the state's poorest neighborhoods. He has also spoken about rationing insulin as a child due to high costs — a story he says drives his push for health care reform.
In announcing his candidacy, Booker said Kentucky needs leadership that will "fight for systemic change" as longtime Sen. Mitch McConnell steps away from party leadership.
"I won't be bullied, and I won't back down," Booker said in a news release Wednesday. "The people of Kentucky are my family, and I was taught you fight for family. We have shown historic victories are possible here, and we're going to do it again."
Booker is joining a crowded Democratic field with famed horse trainer Dale Romans, retired Marine fighter pilot Amy McGrath, Louisville State Rep. Pamela Stevenson, former CIA officer Joel Willett and former Secret Service agent Logan Forsythe. On the Republican side, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr, former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron and businessman Nate Morris are running for the seat.
Booker's platform includes a wage plan he calls "40 for 40," guaranteeing at least $40,000 a year for full-time workers. He also supports Medicare for All and universal child care, saying families are being squeezed by rising costs.
Booker served in the Kentucky House beginning in 2018, becoming the youngest Black legislator elected in the state in decades. He later founded Hood to the Holler, a grassroots group aimed at organizing across race and class.
More details on his campaign are available on his website.
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