Sen. Jim Banks Endorses Nate Morris in Senate Race

On Thursday, Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) endorsed businessman Nate Morris, taking over the support previously held by retired Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY.). This endorsement adds another ally close to President Trump to Morris’s campaign.

In an exclusive statement, Banks called Morris the “America first” candidate, highlighting his alignment with Trump’s agenda. He noted, “Nate, like me, understands that America is the greatest country in the world and is always worth fighting for. Nate is the first American fighter we need in the Senate. President Trump needs more allies there, and Nate Morris never disappoints him or Kentucky.”

Banks is the first US Senator to back Morris in this particular race. Known for his strong ties to Trump and Vice President Vance, Banks previously supported Vance during the 2021 Senate primary in Ohio.

Morris expressed gratitude for Banks’ endorsement, stating, “It is a great honor to have the support of one of President Trump’s most stubborn allies and a fierce opponent of pardon in the US Senate.”

The business executive, who launched his Senate bid on Donald Trump Jr.’s podcast last month, has been gaining traction among conservatives. He has also secured the backing of leaders like the founder of Turning Point USA.

This month, Morris kicked off a substantial ad campaign to target McConnell and other Republicans aiming to fill Senate seats. Among the candidates already announced in key Republican areas are Morris, Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY.), former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, and businessman Michael Faris.

McConnell declared in February that he would not run for re-election in 2026, having served in the Senate since 1985, including 18 years as the leader of the Senate GOP Conference.

According to the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, the Kentucky Senate race is labeled as “solid Republican” for 2026, suggesting a low likelihood of a shift in party control.