Candidates trade barbs at annual Fancy Farm picnic

FANCY FARM, Ky. (WKYT) - Thousands gathered Saturday for the Fancy Farm Picnic, billed as the world’s largest picnic, where candidates for U.S. Senate and governor used the annual event to take direct aim at their opponents.

Nine tons of pork and mutton were on the menu, but politics dominated the afternoon.

“It’s all good home cooking. Vegetables, the way they do things here,” said Gary Foster, who attended the picnic.

Senate candidates go on offense

U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, drew a contrast with Democrats from the stage.

“If I were a Kentucky democrat and had to defend the Democratic Party, I would not want to be found either,” Barr said.

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Charles Booker targeted both Mitch McConnell and Barr.

“We’re going to replace Mitch McConnell and fire his puppet in Andy Barr,” Booker said.

Kentucky Party U.S. Senate candidate Christopher Campbell addressed foreign policy.

“My opponents want to send your kids across the globe to die in wars to a foreign empire,” Campbell said.

Governor’s race draws early attention

The 2027 governor’s race was also a prominent topic from the stage, with both Democratic and Republican candidates drawing attention.

Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman, a Democratic candidate for governor, referenced the 2019 race in which Andy Beshear narrowly defeated Matt Bevin.

“But they are still making headlines. Beshear as a presidential contender. And Bevin as a perennial criminal,” Coleman said.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rocky Adkins focused on bipartisanship.

“Real leadership is about bringing certainty, bringing stability. Real leadership is about working across party lines to bring real results to Kentucky,” Adkins said.

Comer endorsement, no announcement from GOP side

No Republican candidates formally announced a run for governor at the event. Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams, a Republican, had hinted at a potential announcement but instead offered an endorsement.

“And the best thing I can do for my people is to call on all Republicans to join me in supporting James Comer to be our next Governor!” Adams said.

That endorsement drew a loud round of applause and a standing ovation from everyone on the Republican side of the stage and audience.

Comer has not said if he will run for Governor. He has said he remains focused on the First District congressional race.