Adkins to join politicians speaking at Fancy Farm after launching Kentucky governor bid

Organizers announced the latest lineup Friday evening. The annual barbecue picnic, a fundraiser for the St. Jerome Catholic Church in Graves County held the first Saturday in August, has become a longstanding Kentucky tradition for elected officials and campaigning hopefuls. The 2026 picnic is scheduled for Aug. 1 in the West Kentucky town of Fancy Farm. 

Adkins kicked off his campaign Tuesday. He is currently facing  Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, who launched her campaign in April and has previously said she will attend the picnic. 

Republicans Auditor Allison Ball and Treasurer Mark Metcalf also confirmed their attendance. 

The latest list of speakers attending are: 

• State Sen. Jason Howell, R-Murray
• State Rep. Kim Holloway, R-Mayfield
• U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, Republican
• U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, the Republican running for U.S. Senate
• Former state Rep. Charles Booker, the Democrat running for U.S. Senate
• U.S. Rep. James Comer, the Republican seeking reelection in the 1st Congressional District
• John “Drew” Williams, the Democrat challenging Comer
• Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, Democrat running for governor in 2027
• Rocky Adkins, Democrat running for governor in 2027
• Attorney General Russell Coleman, a Republican seeking reelection 
• Treasurer Mark Metcalf, Republican
• Auditor Allison Ball, Republican 
• Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell, Republican

Republican Secretary of State Michael Adams’ attendance was still pending, according to picnic organizers. However, he recently told the Lexington Herald-Leader that he was considering launching a run for governor at the Fancy Farm Picnic or after it. 

Another Republican, U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell has been invited but has yet to decline or accept. He was hospitalized last month and has since moved to a rehabilitation center.  

Typically, only politicians who hold office or are seeking office in general elections to represent the Western Kentucky region speak at Fancy Farm. However, that’s changed with the addition of Adkins to this year’s lineup. Last year, three Republican candidates for U.S. Senate spoke. 

Steven Elder, the political chairman of the picnic, said the committee for the event “wants to ensure that the Fancy Farm Picnic remains relevant. By continuing to include primary candidates for upcoming elections, we can ensure a dynamic event.” 

“For Rocky Adkins, we felt that current officeholders will likely speak about their future candidacy or plans,” Elder added. “Since this is the last picnic before the primary, we felt that because of his name recognition, fundraising ability to compete, and electability, he should be given the opportunity to address the crowd.” 

The general election is in November and the primary is in May.