Senator Gary Clemons - Contact Information

Gary Clemons is a member of the Democratic Party and currently serves in the Kentucky State Senate, representing District 37. He assumed office on January 6, 2026, and his current term will conclude on January 1, 2029.

Gary Dale Clemons was born on August 6, 1974, in Valley Station, Kentucky, and has spent much of his life in Louisville. Before entering politics, Clemons built a career in organized labor and industry. He has worked at the American Synthetic Rubber Company since 1996 and rose to become president of United Steelworkers Local 1693. His leadership in the union highlighted his commitment to advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Clemons also served in the U.S. Army, where he gained experience and discipline that would later inform his public service.

Clemons entered the Kentucky political landscape through a special election held on December 16, 2025. The election was called to fill the vacancy left by David Yates, who resigned from the Senate to become Jefferson County Clerk. Clemons won the special election decisively, ensuring that the Democratic Party retained control of the district. His victory was seen as a continuation of Democratic representation in southwest Jefferson County, an area with a strong working-class base.

As a state senator, Clemons represents District 37, which covers parts of southwest Jefferson County, including communities in Louisville. His legislative priorities reflect his background in labor and community advocacy. Clemons has emphasized the importance of strengthening public education, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and supporting economic development initiatives that benefit working families. He has also voiced support for policies that protect collective bargaining rights and promote fair treatment of workers across Kentucky.

Clemons’s political career is marked by his identity as a “working Kentuckian,” a phrase he has used to describe his perspective and approach to governance. He has stated that his experiences as a labor leader and veteran provide him with a unique understanding of the challenges faced by everyday families. His election to the Senate was celebrated by labor organizations and community groups who view him as a strong advocate for their interests in Frankfort.

Beyond his professional and political life, Clemons is deeply rooted in his local community. His upbringing in Valley Station and long-term residence in Louisville have shaped his values and priorities. He has consistently emphasized listening to constituents and ensuring that their voices are represented in the legislative process. His tenure in the Senate is expected to focus on pragmatic solutions to local and statewide issues, with an emphasis on fairness, opportunity, and accountability.

Clemons’s career trajectory—from industrial worker and union president to state senator—illustrates a path of public service grounded in advocacy and community engagement. His role in the Kentucky State Senate continues to evolve as he works to address pressing issues facing his district and the state as a whole. With his term set to run until January 2029, Clemons is positioned to play a significant role in shaping policy debates and legislative outcomes in Kentucky during the coming years.