Northern Kentucky and Boone County residents are making their voices heard ahead of the May 19 primary election, with published endorsements backing incumbent Congressman Thomas Massie and Boone County Commissioner Chet Hand for judge-executive.

Multiple letters published by the NKy Tribune highlight the contrasting visions voters have for their representation in the 2026 election cycle.

Massie, a seven-term congressman representing Kentucky's 4th Congressional District, faces his most significant primary challenge in a decade from Trump-endorsed Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein. Supporters highlight Massie's pro-life voting record and endorsements from Northern Kentucky Right to Life and Kentucky Right to Life, noting that Gallrein has not answered questionnaires from those organizations or debated his opponent.

The race has drawn national attention due to tensions between Massie and President Donald Trump. Massie has become a critic of Trump during his second administration, notably regarding the release of the Epstein files and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Despite Trump's opposition, recent prediction markets show Massie ahead with 72% odds of becoming the Republican nominee.

In the Boone County judge-executive race, Hand announced his candidacy in April 2025 to challenge incumbent Gary Moore, who has held the seat since 1998. Endorsers describe Hand as a reform-minded candidate who served previously as a fire officer and in corporate risk management. They credit him with pushing for transparency improvements and advocating for lower property tax rates.

Moore highlighted his long tenure and steady approach, while Hand made the case the county is rapidly changing and needs a new approach. The Republican primary is effectively the general election, with no Democratic challenger in the race.

Both races reflect broader voter concerns about representation, fiscal responsibility and the direction of their communities as the county continues rapid growth.