Thomas Massie for U.S. 4th District
To the Editor,
“The unborn may be the only constituency in Washington with no lobbyists — which may be why I keep showing up.” – Thomas Massie
Thomas Massie has represented the 4th District of Kentucky with courage and fortitude. He stands not only for those who can vote, but especially he stands up for those who are most vulnerable and have no voice: the unborn babies. Congressman Massie has earned the support of pro-life voters through a tireless and consistent record of defending the unborn and standing firmly for the sanctity of life.
Massie’s principled leadership is recognized by endorsements from Northern Kentucky Right to Life and Kentucky Right to Life — endorsements that reflect a proven record, not empty rhetoric. He has supported and authored legislation protecting unborn children, opposed taxpayer funding for abortion, and championed constitutional protections for life.

The contrast in this race could not be clearer. While Thomas Massie has earned the trust of the pro-life movement, challenger Ed Gallrein has not even answered questionnaires from Northern Kentucky Right to Life or Kentucky Right to Life, leaving voters without clear answers on where he stands on life issues. Gallrein has also declined multiple opportunities to debate Congressman Massie, avoiding the kind of open public discussion voters deserve.
Elections are about choices, and this one offers a choice between a tested, courageous pro-life defender and an unproven challenger who is unwilling to engage voters or key pro-life organizations.
Beyond the life issue, Massie has consistently represented Kentucky with integrity, independence, and fidelity to constitutional principles. In an era when conviction is rare, he continues to stand firm.
I urge voters who care about protecting life and preserving principled representation in Washington to vote for Thomas Massie for Congress on May 19th.
Luke Brueggemann
Burlington
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For Chet Hand, Boone County Judge-Executive
To the editor:
It’s easy to become cynical about government today. Too often, we see politicians focused more on staying in office than serving the people who elected them.
That’s why I appreciate leaders who step forward with a genuine desire to serve. Chet Hand is one of those people.
Before entering local politics, Chet served our community as a fire officer and medic. He showed up when people needed help most, and that mindset still defines how he leads today.
He later brought that same discipline into the private sector, working in corporate risk management and leadership. That experience matters. It means he understands accountability, budgeting, and how to run organizations efficiently, which is exactly what taxpayers should expect from their local government. I have witnessed him utilize these skills firsthand when he served as the chairman of the Boone County Republican Party.
As a county commissioner, Chet has been willing to ask hard questions about spending, push for transparency, and improve communication between county leadership and residents. In 2024, he stood firm in advocating for the lowest possible property tax rate, pushing for a deeper cut than what was ultimately approved.
What stands out most is that Chet is not building a political career. He is focused on doing the job the right way by keeping taxes in check, cutting unnecessary regulations, and preparing Boone County for responsible growth.
Boone County benefits from leaders who put people before politics.
That is why I am proud to support Chet Hand for Boone County Judge Executive.
Mark Kunkel
Hebron
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Life-long Boone countian supports Chet Hand for Judge-Executive
To the editor:
Being born and raised in Boone County for over 5 decades, I have observed local government and the ever-changing landscape. What once was rolling hills, two lane roads, and small towns has become a leading county in Kentucky for growth.
With population increase of 600% during my lifetime, I feel local government is the most impactful and controllable. In the U.S. Congressional race my vote influences 0.2% of the total Congress, BUT for the County School Board it decides 20% of the board (64% of property taxes).
Working for Davita Healthcare, with promotions to Facility Administrator and Regional Clinical Services Educator, Davita’s Core Values have influenced my personal priorities in choosing a local candidate.
I have chosen to Endorse Chet Hand for Judge Executive of Boone County for the following reasons:
Service: In his current role as Commissioner, one of his first recommendations was to hire a Communications Director for transparency in our local government. Just recently, the Boone County Government page released a new website which is user-friendly.
Integrity: When Chet was elected to Chair for the Republican Party, he set his own term limit. He has provided smooth transitions from BCRP Chairman to Commissioner to Candidate for his replacements. In my opinion, this shows integrity and commitment.
Team: While Chair of the Republican Party from 2022-2026, Chet increased the voting membership from a 9-person board to 192 Precinct Officers making decisions for Republicans in Boone County.
Continuous Improvement: Chet has the ability to “think outside the box”, research information, and forward thinking assessment skills to evaluate the needs of Boone County. When the federal government wanted to provide funds to erect an Electric Vehicle station to be maintained by the local taxpayer, Chet stood his ground protecting
local funds. For several weeks, he debated why would a government overstep to compete with other commercial businesses in such an adventure when the governmentdoesn’t run gas stations? Even the current Judge Executive, who presented this idea, flipped his vote against it.
Accountability: Chet made news with his reaction to the Charlie Kirk assasination angering some people. I have been attacked verbally by members of the local Democrat party who used terms of racist, nazi, homophobic, and “Christian Taliban.”
When “dishing it out”, you should learn how to “take it”! To date, I have actually had one of them come to me and say she is disassociated with that group (and still a Democrat) because she was ostracized for not continuing to use their behavior.
Fulfillment: Chet empowered me to lead the BCRP Membership Committee directing and filling Precinct Officer positions, dispelling the rumors of Chet Hand being a misogynistic leader.
Fun: Working with Chet on projects, he has always remained calm and observant of the team. Finding solutions and using humor to recenter our task. Many of his family ads show his playfulness and lightheartedness.
I believe values matter in a candidate.
Kelly Perry Strayer
Boone County
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All commentary from candidates and letters in support of candidates must be received by the NKyTribune in time to be published by May 16. None will be accepted after that date. Send to news@nkytrib.com. Include name and address and phone number for verification. Only name and community will be published with letters.





