Kentucky horse trainer Dale Romans officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Senator Mitch McConnell in 2027. Romans plans to run as an independent Democrat and must first win the party’s primary, where he will face candidates including Amy McGrath, the 2020 Democratic nominee. Romans emphasizes independence from party control, focusing his campaign on issues like affordability, tariff repeal, healthcare expansion, and immigration reform.

Romans, a Louisville native with a successful career in horse racing—including wins at the Preakness and Travers Stakes—also holds leadership roles in Kentucky’s horse racing community. Despite his political ambitions, he has largely avoided media interviews ahead of his announcement and declined to comment further after declaring his Senate bid.