Scott County Sheriff Tony Hampton has thrown his hat in the ring for the 62nd District seat in the Kentucky House of Representatives, aiming to bring his law enforcement experience and public service to the state level. His announcement comes just days after the current representative, Phillip Pratt, declared he will not seek re-election in 2024.
Hampton, a Republican, has served as Scott County Sheriff since 2018 and previously worked for the Lexington Police Department for 23 years. In his announcement, he emphasized his commitment to public safety and pledged to fight for conservative values in Frankfort.
“I’m proud of the work we’ve done to keep Scott County safe, but I believe I can have an even greater impact on our state by serving in the House,” Hampton said. “I’m running for this office because I want to fight for the values that matter most to Kentuckians: strong families, low taxes, and a government that respects the rule of law.”
Hampton’s background as a law enforcement officer is likely to be a key focus of his campaign. He has pledged to work on issues such as crime, drug abuse, and gun rights. He is also expected to focus on economic development and fiscal responsibility.
The 62nd District includes portions of Scott and Fayette counties, encompassing Georgetown, Lexington, and rural areas in both counties. The district is currently considered Republican-leaning, and Hampton faces several potential Republican challengers for the nomination.
Reactions to Hampton’s Announcement:
- State Republican Party Chairman Scott Steffes welcomed Hampton to the race, praising his experience and leadership qualities. “Sheriff Hampton is a proven conservative who has fought for the people of Scott County,” Steffes said. “I’m confident he will be a strong candidate in the 62nd District.”
- Some Democrats have expressed concerns about Hampton’s candidacy, pointing to his stance on gun control and other issues. However, no Democratic candidate has announced their candidacy so far.
The 2024 Kentucky state legislative elections are expected to be closely contested, as Republicans seek to maintain control of both the House and Senate. Hampton’s campaign for the 62nd District seat is shaping up to be one of the most-watched races in the state.
Additional Notes:
- The article could be expanded to include more details about Hampton’s specific policy positions and his plans for the campaign.
- You could also include quotes from Hampton’s supporters and opponents.
- It would be helpful to provide information about the other candidates in the race, once they announce their candidacy.
