Kentucky House Oversight Committee Chair Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., has told a local newspaper he is laying groundwork for a gubernatorial run in 2027, stating he plans to pursue the office and expects to launch a formal campaign later this year.
The Republican lawmaker, who has served in Congress since 2016, has been increasing political activity in Kentucky as he weighs a statewide bid. Comer did not specify whether he would step down from Congress during a potential gubernatorial campaign, noting that federal or state law does not require it.
His comments come as Kentucky Republicans prepare for the 2027 race, with Governor Andy Beshear term-limited and set to leave office after his second term. Comer, a former Kentucky agriculture commissioner and state legislator, previously ran for governor in 2015, losing the Republican primary by just 83 votes to Matt Bevin before winning election to Congress.
