Yarmuth's out; it's McGarvey vs. Scott in the May primary, so far
By BERRY CRAIG
AFT Local 1360
No sooner did Rep. John Yarmuth announce that he won't seek another term than state Senate Minority Leader Morgan McGarvey tossed his hat in the ring to replace his fellow Louisville Democrat.
“Congressman Yarmuth has been an incredible advocate for Kentucky families,” McGarvey said in his campaign's first news release. “I’m getting into this race understanding that our district has been fortunate to have such a dedicated and respected representative in Washington. His absence leaves a huge hole in our delegation and we need to ensure Kentucky continues to send an effective Democratic voice to Congress.
"I’m going to fight to end generational poverty, rebuild our infrastructure and economy, codify a woman’s right to choose into federal law, and reform our criminal justice system in part by legalizing marijuana.”
Yarmuth, who will be 74 next month, is chair of the powerful House Budget Committee. Since 2007, he has represented the Third Congressional District. which encompasses almost all of the Louisville Metro area,
Yarmuth announced he was retiring via a Tuesday afternoon video, which has been widely posted online.
McGarvey will be the second Democrat on their party's primary ballot next May. In July, state Rep. Attica Scott, also from Louisville, announced she was running against Yarmuth.
McGarvey and Scott may have company. Aaron Yarmuth told the Louisville Courier-Journal that he's mulling a run for his dad's seat. There's plenty of time for others to jump in; the filing deadline isn't until January.
Yarmuth also told the Courier-Journal that he didn't plan to back anybody in the primary unless Aaron decides to become a candidate.
Unions consider Yarmuth one of their strongest supporters in Congress. He has voted the union position on issues 98 percent of the time since he's been in Washington, according to the AFL-CIO.
See:
Louisville Courier-Journal: Kentucky, national leaders react to news Rep. John Yarmuth won't seek reelection
The Hill: House Budget Chair John Yarmuth to retire from Congress
Forward Kentucky: Breaking – Yarmuth announces retirement from Congress