Candidates make final push for GOP nomination with western Kentucky swing

With the primary election on Tuesday, candidates seeking Kentucky's highest office have been making the rounds in western Kentucky.

Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles brought his swing through the Purchase on Friday. Quarles spoke to supporters at Hutchen's BBQ in Benton, promising to be a governor that can "get to western Kentucky without a GPS."

Quarles spoke to West Kentucky Star about addressing issues facing this end of the state.

First, he spoke about the Governor's Office having a presence, not just in Frankfort, but in other parts of the state, as well.

"I think it's also important to have regional offices and regional staff to cater towards the needs of the different distinct regions of the Commonwealth. When it comes to rural counties, we need to make sure they get the attention they deserve, because there are certain issues that exist here that may be a little different than the urban areas."

As has been documented in recent weeks, the fentanyl issue facing not just western Kentucky but the whole state would be addressed by a Quarles administration.

"Drug dealers belong behind bars. And if you are a drug dealer that sells fentanyl that results in the death of a Kentuckian, you should be charged with homicide. And I will push for legislation that does just that. I think that would cut down on those selling poison in our community. But we also need to be supportive of those suffering through addiction. I believe in second chances."

During the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Forum, Quarles brought up the topic of sustainable aviation fuel, an alternative jet fuel made from soybeans. Quarles believes it could be a game-changer for western Kentucky. West Kentucky Star asked him what it would take to get a project like that off the ground.

"I think we have a head start, because, number 1, we already have the supply. But number 2, we actually have oil refineries in Kentucky like Marathon Oil, and others, that are actively looking at this technology."

Quarles also made a stop at the downtown gazebo in Paducah on Friday afternoon.

Former Ambassador Kelly Craft stopped in Paducah on Thursday at Kirchoff's downtown. 

Early voting ended on Saturday and the polls will be open on Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Photo of former Marshall County Commissioner Justin Lamb with Ryan Quarles at Hutchen's BBQ in Benton