Daniel Cameron, Kentucky’s first Black Attorney General, enters the race for Mitch McConnell’s Senate seat, setting the stage for a high-stakes Republican primary.
At a Glance
- Daniel Cameron announces U.S. Senate bid following Mitch McConnell’s retirement decision
- Cameron, Kentucky’s first Black Attorney General, has close ties to McConnell
- His tenure as AG was marked by controversy over the Breonna Taylor case
- Currently the only confirmed Republican candidate, with others considering entering the race
- Kentucky’s deep red status in federal elections makes the GOP primary highly significant
Cameron Enters the Race
Daniel Cameron, Kentucky’s former Attorney General and 2023 Republican gubernatorial candidate, has announced his intention to run for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Senator Mitch McConnell. Cameron’s announcement comes on the heels of McConnell’s decision not to seek re-election after serving seven terms since 1984.
“Kentucky, it’s time for a new generation of leadership in the U.S. Senate. Let’s do this,” Daniel Cameron said.
Cameron’s entry into the race marks a significant moment in Kentucky politics. As the state’s first Black Attorney General and a figure with strong ties to McConnell, having served as his legal counsel, Cameron brings a unique perspective to the campaign.
As long expected, Fmr KY AG and Gubernatorial Candidate Daniel Cameron has entered the race to succeed Mitch McConnell. https://t.co/fB77zsazJT
— Nathaniel Reed (@ReedReports) February 20, 2025
Cameron’s time as Attorney General was not without controversy. His handling of the Breonna Taylor case, where his office declined to indict two officers involved in the shooting, drew national attention and criticism. This decision led to significant backlash, including a critical portrayal on Saturday Night Live.
Despite the controversy, Cameron remains a prominent figure in Kentucky Republican politics. After his unsuccessful gubernatorial bid in 2023, he took on the role of CEO at the 1792 Exchange, an organization focused on countering what they term “woke capitalism.”
While Cameron is currently the only confirmed Republican candidate for the Senate seat, the primary is expected to be highly competitive. U.S. Rep. Andy Barr is among those considering a run, potentially setting up a clash within the party.
The outcome of this primary could have significant implications for the future of the Republican Party in Kentucky and its leadership in Congress. With Kentucky’s strong Republican lean in federal elections, the GOP primary winner would be well-positioned for the general election.
As for the Democrats, state Rep. Pamela Stevenson has announced her candidacy and begun fundraising efforts. However, Kentucky’s recent voting patterns in federal elections suggest an uphill battle for any Democratic challenger.
While Kentucky has shown more competitiveness in gubernatorial races, as evidenced by Democrat Andy Beshear’s victory, federal contests have consistently favored Republicans. This dynamic underscores the importance of the GOP primary in potentially determining the state’s next U.S. Senator.
Given just how long McConnell was in the Senate, there will no doubt be a rush of Republican candidates after Cameron vying for his old seat.