Joel Willett, a former CIA officer and Army veteran, announced his bid to replace U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell. The field of candidates has become more competitive in recent days, as Willett joined state Rep. Pam Stevenson and former Secret Service agent Logan Forsythe in the Democratic primary.

Several Republicans have also announced their candidacy, including U.S. Rep. Andy Barr, former Attorney General Daniel Cameron and Lexington businessman Nate Morris.

Willett, who grew up in Louisville, told Kentucky Public Radio he was inspired to run because he believes working class Kentuckians need to be represented by someone who has the same background. Willett has not previously run for public office.

“It's been increasingly hard for me to sit on the sidelines while I watch people who grew up

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