(PADUCAH, Ky.) — State Senator Danny Carroll, a Republican representing Kentucky’s 2nd District, announced his candidacy for re-election on Wednesday, pledging to continue his focus on economic development and nuclear energy expansion in Western Kentucky.
Carroll, who represents Ballard, Carlisle, Livingston, Marshall, and McCracken counties, has made nuclear energy development a cornerstone of his legislative agenda. He has sponsored multiple bills aimed at positioning Kentucky as a leader in advanced nuclear energy, including the 2017 Leeper Act that lifted the state’s moratorium on nuclear power.
“Serving the people of Western Kentucky in the State Senate has been the honor of my lifetime,” Carroll said in a statement. “We’re creating jobs, lowering taxes, and right now we’re positioning our region as a leader in advanced nuclear energy and manufacturing.”
Economic Development Focus
The senator pointed to his legislative record on economic growth, noting he sponsored legislation that helped create 17,000 new jobs and attract $9 billion in investments to Kentucky. His recent work includes establishing the Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority and creating a grant program to support nuclear energy projects.
Carroll also emphasized his commitment to education funding, public safety, and early childhood education access. He has served as co-chair of a working group addressing challenges facing the state’s Department of Juvenile Justice detention centers.
Campaign Priorities
If re-elected, Carroll said he will prioritize attracting high-paying jobs, expanding Western Kentucky’s role as an energy hub, ensuring adequate school resources while maintaining local control, and supporting law enforcement efforts to combat illegal drugs.
The senator currently chairs the Families and Children Committee and serves on several other legislative committees, including Judiciary, Education, and Health Services. He also sits on the Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority Board and participates in the National Conference of State Legislatures’ Nuclear Legislative working group.
Carroll framed the election as critical to managing the region’s growth. “Western Kentucky is experiencing extraordinary growth,” he said. “I’m running for re-election to ensure we handle these new opportunities with care and keep the focus squarely on how this will benefit our local families.”
The 2nd District election will be decided in the next general election cycle.
