Paducah Mayor jumps into McCracken Judge-Executive race

A new player has entered the race for McCracken County Judge-Executive: Paducah Mayor George Bray.

Bray filed papers on Wednesday to enter the race as an Independent. Three candidates, incumbent Craig Clymer, current commissioner Richard Abraham, and businessman Matt Moore, will face off in May for the Republican nomination. Since no one had filed to run as a candidate of another party, the race would have been decided at the primary level.

In a statement, Bray said, “Without a choice in November, that decision would be made in May by a limited number of voters. I’m running to ensure that all citizens—regardless of party—can participate in this important decision in November.”  

Bray said the things his campaign will focus on will be “inclusive and responsive leadership that listens to all voices, transparency and accountability in government, responsible and optimal use of taxpayer resources, and solutions that reflect the needs of the entire community.

Bray told West Kentucky Star why he decided to enter the race. He said, "I have for some time felt that my leadership experience and proven track record could serve the broader community. I am passionate about the potential for Paducah and McCracken County and look forward to the November race once the winner of the May primary has been determined."

Bray was elected to be Paducah’s mayor in 2020 and then re-elected in 2024.


Official photo from paducahky.gov