James Comer

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., is signaling he is laying the groundwork for a run for Kentucky governor in 2027, telling a local newspaper he plans to pursue the office and expects to launch a formal campaign later this year, according to reporting highlighted by Mediaite.

Comer said he intends to run for governor in 2027, while noting that his effort is not yet formal and suggesting an announcement could come later this year.

The House Oversight Committee chair, who has served in Congress since 2016, has been increasing political activity in Kentucky as he weighs a statewide bid.

Comer did not say whether he would step down from Congress during a potential gubernatorial campaign, which he is not required to do under federal or state law.

His comments come as Kentucky Republicans position themselves for the 2027 race, with Gov. Andy Beshear term-limited and set to leave office after his second term.

Comer, a former Kentucky agriculture commissioner and state legislator, previously ran for governor in 2015, losing the Republican primary by just 83 votes to Matt Bevin before later winning election to Congress.