Meet the candidates for Kentucky House District 46
Republican Robert Devore is challenging incumbent Democrat Al Gentry in the race for Kentucky's House of Representatives District 46.
The district stretches from the outskirts of Jeffersontown to Highview, and from the edge of Fern Creek to Newburg.
Gentry, who is running for his fifth term, is known for helping to pass bills that legalized medical marijuana and sports betting.
"I spent a lot of time the last four terms developing relationships," Gentry said. "I think I have earned a lot of respect around the halls of Frankfort. And let's just say it's a lot easier to get things done now than it was six or seven years ago."
Those relationships have also helped Gentry land coveted spots on budget, licensing and occupations and economic development and workforce committees.
Economic development and education are his top priorities in Frankfort, he said.
Devore got his start in politics on the McCreary County Board of Education before moving to Louisville, Devore said.
He wants to push the state to return to basics in education, emphasizing approaches such as teaching phonics to help children learn to read, he said.
If elected, he'll also work for a property tax freeze for state residents 65 and older, he said.
"When you're paying into 60, 65 years in a school tax and property tax system, keep your money and let them do what they want," Devore said. "Then help their own kids. And if they want to donate to other causes, let them."