The Associated Press projected Barr as the winner shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday. He received 53.7 percent of the vote, compared to Booker’s 44.2 percent.
Barr, a Lexington native, has represented Kentucky’s Sixth Congressional District since 2013. He campaigned on border security, tax cuts, expanding energy production and supporting Kentucky farmers. He also had President Donald Trump's endorsement.
In his victory speech, Barr called the result a win for Kentucky, saying he plans to work with members of both parties to move the country forward.
Booker, a former state representative from Louisville, conceded the race, thanked supporters, and encouraged them to keep fighting for the issues they believe in.
The election marks the end of an era for McConnell, who has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 1985. He announced in February 2025 that he would not seek another term after stepping down as Senate Republican leader.
Barr will begin his six-year Senate term in January 2027, keeping both of Kentucky’s U.S. Senate seats in Republican hands.