Erin Petrey responds to Herald-Leader’s endorsement in KY’s 6th District | Opinion

KY-06 voters have been given the same type of establishment, corporate Democrat candidates for too long. We need new, relevant voices who won’t negotiate against ourselves, not Republican-lite. Incremental change isn’t acceptable anymore. We need bold ideas, relentless drive. That’s why I, Erin Petrey, a proud, progressive Democrat, am the best option to flip this seat in November.

You always know where I stand. I speak plainly on issues, a stark contrast to the endorsed candidate. I believe in Medicare for All, regardless of who’s in charge. I stand against genocide and am endorsed by TrackAIPAC. I’m the only candidate to call to abolish ICE and demand a data center moratorium. I always show up for voters, regardless if they can write a check.

As for experience, I’m not a 3D printed candidate. I’m a real person with a dynamic career building real things, creating jobs, and fighting for sustainability. I have deep experience in renewable energy, international affairs, healthcare, and infrastructure - getting things done in the real world, not just talking points.

If you want an establishment, elitist candidate who quits when things get tough and is funded by out of district billionaires, then I’m not for you. If you want an unapologetic fighter, someone who cannot be bought, and will push the Democratic Party to be better, then I’m asking for your vote on May 19th.

Erin Petrey wrote this piece in response to the Herald-Leader’s endorsement of Zach Dembo for the Democratic primary in the U.S. Sixth District House race. The Herald-Leader invites candidates who were not endorsed to respond with an op-ed.

This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 3:08 PM.