Two GOP Candidates Vie for Boone County Judge-Executive

Incumbent Gary Moore faces off against challenger Chet Hand in high-profile Kentucky race.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 4:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two well-known Republican candidates are facing off in the race for Boone County judge-executive in Northern Kentucky. Incumbent Gary Moore, who has held the position since 1999, is being challenged by Chet Hand, a political newcomer who believes the country is not on the right path.

Why it matters

The Boone County judge-executive race is seen as a key local contest that could signal broader trends within the Republican party. The race pits a long-serving establishment Republican against a more populist, anti-establishment challenger, reflecting divisions within the GOP.

The details

Incumbent Gary Moore touts a lengthy record of accomplishments and political experience, having served as Boone County judge-executive since 1999. Challenger Chet Hand is a political newcomer who believes "our country wasn't really on the right path" and is running on a platform of change.

  • The election for Boone County judge-executive will be held on November 5, 2026.

The players

Gary Moore

The incumbent Boone County judge-executive who has held the position since 1999.

Chet Hand

The Republican challenger seeking to unseat the long-serving incumbent Gary Moore.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Our country wasn't really on the right path”

— Chet Hand

What’s next

Voters in Boone County will head to the polls on November 5, 2026 to decide between the two Republican candidates.

The takeaway

This race reflects the broader divisions within the Republican party, with the establishment candidate Gary Moore facing a populist challenger in Chet Hand. The outcome could signal which direction the GOP is headed in Boone County and beyond.