Chandler, Barr both file to run in 6th District congressional race

By Jack Brammer
jbrammer@herald-leader.com

FRANKFORT — Democratic U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler and Republican challenger Andy Barr took steps Friday that are expected to set up a rematch in this year’s race for U.S. Congress from Central Kentucky’s 6th District.

Chandler, who has represented the district since winning a special election in 2004, defeated Barr in the 2010 race by 647 votes.

Chandler sent a representative Friday morning to file his candidacy papers for this year, while Barr showed up at the Capitol to file his.

Barr then held a news conference to say Chandler is too close to President Barack Obama, who also is seeking re-election this year.

Barr also said he will have the money to compete with Chandler. Chandler outspent Barr in the 2010 race $2.59 million to $1.51 million. “Yet it was the third closest congressional race in America,” Barr said.

“We will have the resources to get out our message of limited government, free enterprise and fiscal responsibility,” Barr said.

Chandler said of his filing, “It has been an honor to serve the constituents of the 6th District as their representative in Congress. I enjoy working for the people of Central Kentucky and very much look forward to continuing to bring a moderate, common sense voice to Washington.”

Barr will have opposition in the May Republican primary. Curtis Kenimer of Paris filed Thursday as a GOP candidate in the race. He could not be reached for comment.

Filed Under: Andy Barr • Ben Chandler • Elections • Federal Government • KY-6th