Clymer looks to continue to lead McCracken County's growth
Judge Executive seeks re-election in May 19 primary
McCracken County Judge Executive Craig Z. Clymer has a long list of accomplishments he says proves he should be re-elected to lead the county.
“My philosophy is to proactively search for and take any action that will benefit McCracken County; with these principal guidelines,” Clymer says on his campaign website. “A, will it benefit the county? B, can we afford it now? C, how does it rank compared to other needs?”
Clymer, who has led the county since 2018, faces a Republican primary challenge from Matt Moore and Richard Abraham. The GOP primary is May 19, and early voting starts May 6.
“Craig Clymer has demonstrated a clear commitment to protecting private property rights and ensuring local government works for the people—not against them,” said Charlie Kolean, executive director of the Private Property Rights Institute. “Strong county leadership matters, and we believe Clymer reflects the principles of economic freedom and responsible governance that our organization stands for.”
In Clymer’s eight years as Judge Executive, McCracken County’s financial position has improved dramatically. Taxes have been lowered to among the lowest in the region. The sheriff’s department has seen pay increased to keep experience deputies. Children have a state-of-the-art sports facility and a sports park on the way. The McCracken and Paducah water services have merged, creating savings for users.
In addition, McCracken County has attracted two multi-billion-dollar uranium enrichment companies expected to create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of permanent positions to help supply the nation’s nuclear fuel needs. In addition, a company is coming to the county to convert nearly 10,000 tons of contaminated nickel to clean product. And, an artificial intelligence center is planned as well as possible small modular nuclear reactors to supply power to the AI center.
“These are not ‘maybes.’” Clymer says. “They are coming, and coming now. Each of these projects, singly, is a tremendous achievement for our community. Together, we are ‘Boomtown.’ We are the talk of U.S. Congress, and we will be the talk of the nation. We are ‘Atomic City 2.0.’”
The county also has seen infrastructure improvements, such as the new Barkley Regional Airport terminal as well as a new roof and sports flooring at the Convention and Expo Center. But other upgrades include playground equipment, pickleball courts, lighting, landscaping, fencing and such at various parks across the county.
“When you hire someone to do a job, just as when you elect a candidate, you want a person with years of experience, with a good reputation, the tools and skills needed, and a proven positive track record,” Clymer says. “Leading a county our size is a tremendous honor. It is also difficult, demanding and requires meticulous adherence to county, state and federal laws and regulations.
“My prior legal and law enforcement experience, along with seven years ‘on the job as Judge Executive has been invaluable in moving McCracken County forward.”
Clymer previously served 23 years as a state judge (six as a district judge and 17 as a circuit judge), four years as a judicial attorney in U.S. District Court, 10 years in law enforcement in Paducah and McCracken County as well as 12 years as a U.S. Department of Defense ombudsman.
“My law degree, law enforcement degree, education in public administration and economics and certification as a mediator equip me to address all aspects of county administration,” Clymer says. “I know the law, I understand government administration, know economics theories and how to negotiate for our county.”
He also has championed solar development, which often attracts economic investment. A 60MW McCracken County Solar PV project has been developed. Also, the county changed its zoning ordinance in 2021 to allow solar installations with conditional use permits in agricultural zones.
“We have the momentum,” Clymer says. “McCracken County has already emerged as a far more sound, energetic and accomplished community. I am eager to continue leading toward even greater achievements.
“I am confident that our future is strong.”