The Emerge Kentucky training program is a unique opportunity for Democratic women who want to run for public office. It is the only in-depth, six-month, 70-hour training program that inspires candidates to run and gives them the tools to win. As a program member, you will be exposed to a variety of campaign and election experts. You will meet an array of dynamic women who hold elected and appointed office. Through Emerge, you are given specific opportunities to expand your political network. As an Emerge program member, you become a part of a supportive network which includes a state-wide and national network of Emerge alumnae and members of the Emerge Board and Advisory Board.
Participants meet 8 times out of a 6-month period and receive comprehensive training on the following topics:
Why Emerge, Why Now, Why You
Equity and Justice
Campaign Nuts and Bolts
Message and Communication
Fundraising
Field
Relationships with Media
Endorsements
Preparation to Run
Time Commitment
The success of the Emerge Kentucky program depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the six-month period, approximately 70 program hours are scheduled. Some time outside of regularly scheduled trainings will be necessary for homework and training preparation. While emergencies sometimes arise, attendance on the first day of training is mandatory and absence for any reason will result in a deferral to the following year. Please review the schedule below to ensure your availability to attend every day labeled “Training.”
*Dates are tentative and subject to change*
Class Orientation Reception: Friday, January 22, 2027, 6:00 – 8:00 PM ET – Louisville
Training I: Saturday, January 23, 2027, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ET – Louisville
Training II: Tuesday, February 9, 2027, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM ET – Frankfort
Reception: Tuesday, February 9, 2027, 4:30 – 6:00 PM ET – Frankfort
Reception: Friday, February 26, 2027, 5:30 – 7:00 PM CT – Paducah
Training III: Saturday, February 27, 2027, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM CT – Paducah
Reception: Friday, March 12, 2027, 5:30 – 7:00 PM ET – Lexington
Training IV: Saturday, March 13, 2027, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ET – Lexington
Training V: Saturday, April 10, 2027, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ET – Louisville
Reception: Friday, May 14, 2027, 6:00 – 7:30 PM ET – Covington
Training VI: Saturday, May 15, 2027, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ET – Covington
Training VII: Saturday, Sunday, June 27, 2027, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM ET – Frankfort
Graduation Ceremony/Reception: Sunday, June 27, 4:00 PM ET – Frankfort
*All trainings are from 8:30AM-5PM local times, except training II
Emerge trainers are comprised of a premier team of campaign consultants, advisors, and staff from across the Bluegrass and affiliate states. Many of them have been involved in some of the most successful campaigns and initiatives we have seen in recent election cycles. They come from backgrounds that span fundraising, direct mail, field strategy, communications, press management, and campaign messaging. They have won races from the city council to the governor’s mansion.
We need your participation to change the face of Kentucky politics. It does not matter if you are thinking of running for local school board or the U.S. Senate. We can help you get ready to run!