Democratic and Republican candidates launch campaigns for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Two more candidates officially joined the race for Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District on Thursday, one Democrat and one Republican, adding to an already growing field.

Democrat Zach Dembo, a Navy veteran, former federal prosecutor, and Lexington native, announced his candidacy in a release Thursday. He said he’s running to lower the cost of living, protect Medicaid and affordable healthcare, and oppose tariffs that hurt Kentucky jobs. Dembo previously served as a Navy JAG officer, civil rights prosecutor at the U.S. Department of Justice, and policy advisor to Governor Andy Beshear.

Republican Dr. Ralph Alvarado, a physician and former state senator from Winchester, also launched his campaign Thursday, pledging to support President Trump’s agenda. In his announcement, Alvarado described himself as a “conservative fighter” who would secure the border, fight inflation, defend Kentucky industries, and oppose what he called the “woke agenda.” He pointed to his legislative record on protecting life, gun rights, and addressing the opioid crisis. Until last week, Alvarado was the commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Health.

Both candidates join an already crowded race for the Central Kentucky seat. Dembo faces former state Rep. Cherlynn Stevenson and former Lexington council member David Kloiber in the Democratic primary, while Alvarado will face state Rep. Ryan Dotson and state Rep. Deanna Gordon in the GOP Primary.

The primary election will be held in May of 2026.