Joe Meyer and Buddy Wheatley Endorse Amy McGrath 

PARIS, KY. – Longtime local leaders Joe Meyer and Buddy Wheatley are throwing their support behind Amy McGrath for U.S. Senate this week. 

With endorsements from prominent Northern Kentucky figures, McGrath continues to build a coalition of trusted Kentucky leaders. McGrath’s campaign focuses on delivering results for working families and ensuring every Kentuckian is properly represented in decisions that directly affect them. 

Throughout his lengthy career in public service, former Mayor Joe Meyer has dedicated himself to a better Kentucky. Most recently, Meyer served two terms as mayor of Covington, Kentucky, where he focused on economic development, infrastructure improvements, and education initiatives. Prior to serving as mayor, Meyer served in the Kentucky General Assembly, in both the House and the Senate, and also acted as Secretary of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet under Governor Steve Beshear. 

“Amy McGrath consistently demonstrates her dedication to improving the Commonwealth. As costs rise and healthcare access declines, we need a Senator who will put the people first and ensure accountability where important decisions are made. As a Northern Kentucky local, Amy sees firsthand how families are feeling pressure from higher prices on groceries, utilities, childcare, and housing. She knows what it means to show up and fight, and I am honored to stand with her to advance a brighter future for Kentucky,” said Meyer. 

Both McGrath and Meyer champion improving educational opportunities in the trades to create new jobs, lower rising costs for working families constantly trying to get ahead, and increase access to quality healthcare in the region. 

Along with Meyer’s endorsement, Buddy Wheatley, former Kentucky Representative, has announced his support for McGrath’s campaign. Wheatley is a retired Covington firefighter and Fire Chief, attorney for public-sector labor unions, and experienced state legislator. Known for his decades of public service to Covington and Northern Kentucky, Wheatley has focused on workers’ rights, public health and safety, and expanding voting accessibility. Drawing on his experience as a first responder, Buddy Wheatley continues to advocate for the well-being and continuous growth of communities across the Commonwealth. 

“I am proud to call Amy McGrath my friend and endorse her 2026 candidacy to be Kentucky’s next Senator. My two terms as a state representative, 20 years as a career firefighter and fire chief, and my 15 years of experience as a labor attorney have taught me how to read people and recognize authenticity, especially with politicians. 

My read is that Amy is truly authentic, through and through. Her military background and commitment to serving all Kentuckians stand out, but her political acumen and intelligence also convince me she will know how to get things done when she is elected. We may be in a divisive time period, but once we elect someone of Amy McGrath’s integrity, Kentucky will know we have elected a person who stands by her principles,” said Wheatley. 

“Both Mayor Meyer and Rep. Wheatley have always put Kentuckians first. They have been willing to tackle hard issues for their communities, setting a precedent for leaders to follow in education, development, safety, and community revitalization. As a Northern Kentucky native, I have seen their work in action, and I am honored to have their support for this race,” McGrath said. 

The Democratic primary election will take place on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Voters can find more information for polling locations, hours, and registration status at the Kentucky Voter Information Center website. 

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