Lexington Mayor Jim Gray is reportedly considering a run for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Rand Paul. The news received a mixed reaction Friday in the state capitol.
Gray, a registered Democrat, told the Lexington Herald Leader that he enjoys the job of mayor and the only reason he would consider running for the U.S. Senate is he believes Washington is terribly broken. Gray said he could offer a practical contribution to help create jobs in Kentucky.
Former state House Speaker, Democrat Jody Richards, said he’s unsure if Gray is a viable candidate.
“I haven’t seen any polls, so I just don’t know,” Richards said.
Republican state Sen. Jimmy Higdon of Lebanon calls Gray a credible candidate, but says incumbency is hard to overcome.
“You know, looking at it from where I sit, it’s very difficult to beat an incumbent,” Higdon said. “I think Rand Paul will be secure in that seat regardless of who ran against him.”
Gray has until January 26 to file for candidacy. Two other Republican candidates, Stephen Slaughter of Louisville and James Gould of Lexington have also filed to run against Paul. ?
