Kentucky Representative Rogers Secures Victory in Republican Primary, Secures 23rd Term

Rep. Hal Rogers, R-Ky., the longest-serving active House member, secured a 23^rd term by winning the Republican primary for Kentucky’s fifth congressional district on Tuesday.

DecisionDesk HQ declared Rogers as the winner with 81.6% of the vote and 84% of the precincts reporting. Running unopposed in November, Rogers has represented the fifth congressional district since 1981.

Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., elected in 1980, is also on the ballot for New Jersey’s GOP primary on June 4. However, due to seniority being determined alphabetically for members sworn in on the same day, Rogers is ranked above Smith.

“I’m honored to have the overwhelming confidence and support of folks across Southern and Eastern Kentucky,” Rogers stated, as reported by WSAZ-TV. “The mountain grit and integrity of our region inspires me every day, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to continue serving the region that I call home.”

Dr. Dana Edwards, who self-financed much of his campaign, came in second behind Rogers with 10.7% of the vote, followed by Brandon Monhollen (5.6%) and David Kraftchak Jr. (2.1%).

Rogers holds the record for being the longest-serving House member in Kentucky’s history. Brent Spence, the last Democrat to represent Kentucky’s fifth congressional district, served for 20 years before retiring after his term ended in 1962.