Central Kentucky voters have placed Zach Dembo, a Navy veteran, in the U.S. House of Representatives. In a post‑election interview with LEX News, Dembo outlined the priorities he will pursue once he arrives in Washington, emphasizing the impact of federal policy on everyday families in the district.
Medicaid cuts and health‑care affordability
Dembo warned that upcoming Medicaid reductions will hit the most vulnerable residents of the 6th District hardest. “We have to reverse these Medicaid cuts that are about to go into effect next year,” he said. He framed the cuts as a direct threat to health‑care access for seniors, low‑income families, and rural patients who already travel long distances for care.
He also highlighted broader health‑care costs, noting that families should not have to choose between filling up farm equipment, buying gasoline for their trucks, or seeing a doctor. “These are decisions no one should be having to make in the greatest and richest country in the world,” Dembo added.
Inflation, tariffs and the cost of living
Turning to the economy, Dembo linked rising prices to tariff policies that he believes have “jacked up inflation.” He pledged to work with fellow lawmakers to address those tariffs, arguing that lower trade barriers will help bring down the price of fuel, food, and other essentials for Kentuckians.
Oversight of the war in Iran
Dembo, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, expressed deep concern about the ongoing conflict in Iran. He called for “real, true oversight” of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and the administration’s strategy, stating that from an outside perspective there appears to be no coherent plan.
If congressional inquiries reveal a lack of strategy, Dembo said he would consider using the War Powers Resolution and cutting funding to pressure the administration into providing answers.
Commitment to constituents
Dembo promised an open line of communication with the 770,000 residents he now represents. He plans to hold regular town halls, build a robust constituent‑services program, and travel throughout the district to stay connected to local concerns.
“I want to make sure I’m still traveling around the district,” he said. “I’m already setting up meetings as we speak.”
Alignment with President Trump’s peace‑of‑war stance
Dembo noted that he agreed with President Trump’s calls to end prolonged U.S. military engagements. While he praised the president’s rhetoric, he expressed disappointment that the promise has not yet been fully realized, stating, “It’s clear he’s betrayed that promise.”
By focusing on health‑care, inflation, and foreign‑policy oversight, Dembo aims to translate his military‑service experience into concrete legislative action for Central Kentucky.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
