Alvarado, Dembo court Lexington voters with just over a week until election to replace Barr

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The two major party candidates hoping to succeed Rep. Andy Barr campaigned across Lexington on Saturday.

Barr is running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Mitch McConnell, who is retiring, leaving his House seat open.

Republican Ralph Alvarado appeared alongside Barr and Sen. Rand Paul at a get-out-the-vote rally Saturday morning at the Fayette County Republican Headquarters.

“We’re fighting for the things that you all believe in,” Alvarado said during his speech.

Alvarado pitches law-and-order message

During his remarks, Alvarado pitched himself as the law-and-order candidate, touting his Fraternal Order of Police endorsement. He said the attorney general backs him because, in his words, his campaign backs the blue.

“We need everybody to get out and vote to make sure our voices are heard and the right representation moving forward,” he said.

Dembo holds campaign finance town hall

Meanwhile, Democrat Zach Dembo held a town hall at Laborers’ Local 189 with End Citizens United, arguing Washington special interests are driving up farm and health care costs.

Dembo, a former federal prosecutor, said he backs limits on undisclosed spending and a congressional stock-trading ban.

“I think it is vital as we look to overcome the crisis and have a better America after this election,” he said. “What I am excited about is this moment because this is a historic moment for us.”

He said he is hopeful that former public servants like him running for office nationwide will bring change to campaign finance reform.

Dembo and Alvarado will face off for a final debate in Estill County on Tuesday. Voters will decide the race in the general election on Nov. 3.