Jefferson County, December 16, 2025
Polls opened today for the special election in Jefferson County’s 37th Senate District to fill the vacancy left by former State Senator David Yates. Voters have until 6:00 p.m. to cast their ballots for either Republican Calvin Leach or Democrat Gary Clemons, both U.S. Army veterans. Several polling locations have been established to ensure access for engaged citizens. The election results will be announced later this evening, determining the new representative for the district.
Louisville, Kentucky – Polls opened at 6:00 a.m. today for the special election in Jefferson County’s 37th Senate District, following the resignation of former State Senator David Yates, who became the interim Jefferson County Clerk. Voters have until 6:00 p.m. to cast their ballots at designated polling locations.
This election brings two notable candidates to the forefront: Republican Calvin Leach and Democrat Gary Clemons. Both men are U.S. Army veterans and share a commitment to public service. Calvin Leach, a lifelong resident of Louisville’s South End, retired from the U.S. Army in February 2025 and has academic credentials from the University of Louisville. On the other hand, Gary Clemons boasts a strong history of community involvement and public service. With both candidates having direct ties to military and civic leadership, the race is particularly significant for constituents in the 37th District.
With a clear call for voter participation, Jefferson County has provided a variety of polling locations, including Sts. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, South Louisville Government Building, and Beechmont Community Center, among others. These sites are open for voting until 6:00 p.m., allowing ample opportunity for engaged citizens to exercise their democratic rights. Also noteworthy is the early voting that took place on December 11, 12, and 13, which encouraged broader participation among residents.
For those who sought mail-in absentee ballots but missed the December 2 deadline, in-person voting remains an option today at the designated polling locations. The Jefferson County Clerk’s Office has been proactive in ensuring the voting process is secure and accessible, which is essential for upholding democratic principles in our local governance.
As the day unfolds and polls approach closing time, election officials will start the vote count. Results are anticipated to be disclosed later this evening, determining who will represent the 37th Senate District in the Kentucky State Senate, an important seat for the ongoing development of legislative priorities in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of today’s special election?
The special election is being held to fill the vacancy in the Kentucky State Senate’s 37th District, which was created by the resignation of former State Senator David Yates, who became the interim Jefferson County Clerk.
Who are the candidates in this election?
The candidates are Republican Calvin Leach and Democrat Gary Clemons, both U.S. Army veterans with backgrounds in public service.
Where can I vote in this election?
Polling locations include Sts. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, South Louisville Government Building, Southwest Government Building, Epiphany United Methodist Church, Beechmont Community Center, Southwest Community Ministries, and Harbor House. These sites are open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Election Day.
Can I still vote if I missed the absentee ballot deadline?
Yes, if you missed the absentee ballot deadline, you can still vote in person at the designated polling locations today between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
When will the election results be announced?
The election results are expected to be announced later this evening, after the polls close and the votes are counted.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Election Date | December 16, 2025 |
| Polling Hours | 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
| Polling Locations | Sts. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, South Louisville Government Building, Southwest Government Building, Epiphany United Methodist Church, Beechmont Community Center, Southwest Community Ministries, Harbor House |
| Absentee Ballot Deadline | December 2, 2025 |
| Candidates | Calvin Leach (Republican), Gary Clemons (Democrat) |
| Purpose of Election | To fill the vacancy in the Kentucky State Senate’s 37th District |
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