James Comer appears to be moving closer toward a possible run for Kentucky governor in 2027, according to recent reports from state and national media outlets.

The Kentucky Republican, who currently serves as chairman of the House Oversight Committee in Washington, reportedly told a local newspaper that he expects to formally launch a gubernatorial campaign later this year, although no official announcement has been made at this time.

Comer has represented Kentucky’s 1st Congressional District since 2016 and has recently increased his political activity across the Commonwealth as speculation continues to grow about his future plans.

If he enters the race, Comer would join what is expected to become a competitive Republican primary ahead of the 2027 election. Current Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear cannot seek another term due to term limits.

Before serving in Congress, Comer was Kentucky’s Agriculture Commissioner and also served in the Kentucky House of Representatives. He previously sought the governor’s office in 2015, narrowly losing the Republican primary to Matt Bevin by just 83 votes before later winning his congressional seat.

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