Last weekend, Kentucky was devastated by a record-breaking tornado. The damage was catastrophic — entire towns were erased, thousands of families saw their homes disappear overnight, and many are still searching for loved ones.
In spite of this tragedy, we did what Kentucky does best. We showed up and took care of one other.
My campaign team and I drove down to Bowling Green after the storm to help deliver aid. In the midst of the debris and destruction, volunteers from all over Kentucky came to share their love, food, supplies, housing, and support.
This is who we are. When I say I love Kentucky, this is why.
We have seen so many tough times in Kentucky. But even in the storm, we stand together, lean into our faith, and keep pushing ahead. Strength and resolve are part of who we are as Kentuckians.
But the fact of the matter is that there are a lot of communities across Kentucky that are now gone. Many of them may not return or will never be the same.
It’s an urgent reminder of the deeper work we need to do to prepare for the next crisis. So many of us were without food and housing before this tornado. So many of us were hanging on by a thread before this storm.
We must do the deeper work and address the climate crisis, invest in infrastructure, and end poverty. In a very real way, we must build back better.
My campaign and I are committed to this mission starting with being in Western Kentucky and spending as much time as needed to make sure those who were impacted by this storm receive the care and support they need.
These past days have reaffirmed to me what I want to do with my life.
In all I do, I want to help the people of Kentucky. I just want my life and the work I do to add value to a place and people that mean everything to me. I want us to have healing and prosperity. I want us to thrive.
That’s the reason I will always show up. That’s my only agenda.
I love you, Kentucky.
Charles
