By Jacque Day
Benton, Ky. – The Democratic challenger seeking the congressional seat of longtime Republican incumbent Ed Whitfield is gearing up for the Fancy Farm picnic next month. Benton resident Charles Kendall Hatchett, 58, says he aims to discuss the congressman's role as public servant.
"I want to talk to people... Republicans, Independents and Democrats... about a servant attitude. My example's going to be Alben Barkley, who I think was our greatest politician and servant in the first district."
Hatchett says he's worked this summer as a garbage collector for $12.50 an hour to make ends meet. His Fancy Farm talking points will include jobs in this region.
"We can't afford to just keep on keeping on like we're going. I have been a working person most of my life, and I want to be a working person if I lose this election or if I win the election."
He says, he thinks a congressman's salary should be tied to the prevailing wage of the district. He says he has no campaign finance report because he is not actively fundraising.