Brandon Long, a Democrat running for the 68th district of Kentucky, is seeking to challenge the status quo in a race that pits him against incumbent Mike Clines, a Republican. Long, who is deeply tied to the community, offers a vision of public service that focuses on putting children and families first. As a passionate advocate for the most vulnerable, Long hopes to bring progressive values to the heart of Kentucky politics.
Raised in Eastern Kentucky, Long’s personal journey is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the state. He grew up in a coal-mining family and witnessed firsthand the decline of the industry, which forced his family to relocate to Berea. This early experience shaped his understanding of economic hardship and inequality, sparking a lifelong passion for advocacy. His campaign is about more than just politics; it is about representing the people who have been forgotten by the system.
“We need leaders who will show up and stand up for our kids. I know what it’s like to be put last, and I’m running to change that,”
Brandon Long
While Clines has held the seat since 2022, Long aims to present a stark contrast in approach and priorities. Clines, a former superintendent of the Covington Catholic school system, has faced criticism for his voting record. According to Long, Clines has repeatedly voted for policies that harm children, including cutting SNAP benefits and rolling back child labor laws. In contrast, Long’s campaign is centered on ensuring that Kentucky’s children are the focus of every policy decision. From education to healthcare, he wants to be a legislator who consistently asks, “How does this put kids first?”
Long also highlights his connection to Kentucky’s evolving political landscape, noting the rise of what he calls a “moderate to progressive Appalachia.” This movement, represented by figures like Governor Andy Beshear and musician Tyler Childers, is a counter to the more conservative forces that have traditionally dominated the region. Long hopes to carry this banner forward, advocating for justice, inclusivity, and unity.
In addition to his focus on youth advocacy, Long emphasizes the need for economic investment in Northern Kentucky, particularly in his district. He points out that areas like Alexandria and Cold Spring have been largely ignored, while neighboring Newport has seen significant investment under Democratic leadership. Long wants to replicate that success by working closely with Beshear and local officials to bring resources and development to the area.
“Our district deserves the same kind of investment we see in Newport. We need leadership that will fight for economic development and work with the governor to make it happen.”
Brandon Long
Despite the challenges of running in a traditionally Republican district, Long is optimistic. He notes that while Clines won 63% of the vote in 2022, the district has been slowly shifting. Clines’ predecessor, Joseph Fisher, won by a much larger margin in previous elections, suggesting that voters are becoming more open to change. Long’s message of inclusivity, children’s advocacy, and economic investment is resonating with both Democrats and Republicans alike.
A crucial part of Long’s strategy is his commitment to showing up—everywhere. Whether it’s a Democratic stronghold or a deeply conservative area, Long intends to meet voters where they are, listen to their concerns, and make his case. He believes that by engaging with the community directly, he can bridge the political divide and bring people together around shared values.
“I’m going to be at every parade, every event. I’ll knock on every door if I have to. I want to show people that I care about their concerns and that I’m here to fight for them.”
Brandong Long
As the November election approaches, Brandon Long’s campaign will be one to watch. While the district has favored Republicans in recent years, Long’s focus on children, economic development, and bipartisan cooperation could make this race more competitive than expected. Voters will have the opportunity to decide whether they want more of the same or a representative who is committed to putting kids first and building a better future for Kentucky on November 5th.
Mon, October 14, 2024
Commentary
The Berea Torch
By Ülvi Gitaliyev
Brandon Long, a Democrat running for the 68th district of Kentucky, is seeking to challenge the status quo in a race that pits him against incumbent Mike Clines, a Republican. Long, who is deeply tied to the community, offers a vision of public service that focuses on putting children and families first. As a passionate advocate for the most vulnerable, Long hopes to bring progressive values to the heart of Kentucky politics.
Raised in Eastern Kentucky, Long’s personal journey is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the state. He grew up in a coal-mining family and witnessed firsthand the decline of the industry, which forced his family to relocate to Berea. This early experience shaped his understanding of economic hardship and inequality, sparking a lifelong passion for advocacy. His campaign is about more than just politics; it is about representing the people who have been forgotten by the system.
While Clines has held the seat since 2022, Long aims to present a stark contrast in approach and priorities. Clines, a former superintendent of the Covington Catholic school system, has faced criticism for his voting record. According to Long, Clines has repeatedly voted for policies that harm children, including cutting SNAP benefits and rolling back child labor laws. In contrast, Long’s campaign is centered on ensuring that Kentucky’s children are the focus of every policy decision. From education to healthcare, he wants to be a legislator who consistently asks, “How does this put kids first?”
Long also highlights his connection to Kentucky’s evolving political landscape, noting the rise of what he calls a “moderate to progressive Appalachia.” This movement, represented by figures like Governor Andy Beshear and musician Tyler Childers, is a counter to the more conservative forces that have traditionally dominated the region. Long hopes to carry this banner forward, advocating for justice, inclusivity, and unity.
In addition to his focus on youth advocacy, Long emphasizes the need for economic investment in Northern Kentucky, particularly in his district. He points out that areas like Alexandria and Cold Spring have been largely ignored, while neighboring Newport has seen significant investment under Democratic leadership. Long wants to replicate that success by working closely with Beshear and local officials to bring resources and development to the area.
Despite the challenges of running in a traditionally Republican district, Long is optimistic. He notes that while Clines won 63% of the vote in 2022, the district has been slowly shifting. Clines’ predecessor, Joseph Fisher, won by a much larger margin in previous elections, suggesting that voters are becoming more open to change. Long’s message of inclusivity, children’s advocacy, and economic investment is resonating with both Democrats and Republicans alike.
A crucial part of Long’s strategy is his commitment to showing up—everywhere. Whether it’s a Democratic stronghold or a deeply conservative area, Long intends to meet voters where they are, listen to their concerns, and make his case. He believes that by engaging with the community directly, he can bridge the political divide and bring people together around shared values.
As the November election approaches, Brandon Long’s campaign will be one to watch. While the district has favored Republicans in recent years, Long’s focus on children, economic development, and bipartisan cooperation could make this race more competitive than expected. Voters will have the opportunity to decide whether they want more of the same or a representative who is committed to putting kids first and building a better future for Kentucky on November 5th.
Republished from Berea Torch.
https://bereatorch.com/2024/10/14/building-a-brighter-future-together-brandon-longs-campaign-for-the-68th-district-of-kentucky/
The Berea Torch
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