We now know who the Republican nominee for U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie's old Senate seat will be.

Attorney J. Marshall Hughes is on the ballot after nominations by area Republican parties Thursday night.

While addressing the audience in the Warren County Fiscal Court room, Hughes admitted he never thought this time last year he'd even be considering a run for the state Senate.

But he says fate and hard work have brought him to this moment and he has big plans if he does get sent to Frankfort.

"I'm elated. I'm ready to go to work," says a jubilant Hughes.

But Hughes knows he's got a lot of work to do between now and the election on February 10th.

"We've got to work quick. I've got to make phone calls and I've got to see people and I will do that," Hughes says.

Hughes believes he's ready to step up after the loss of Representative Jody Richards, Guthrie, and former Senator Richie Sanders in power positions representing our area.

"I would be a part of the senate majority if I get elected and of course by being in the Senate majority and being on the Transportation, Education and A & R (which forms the budget), then I can get things done for Warren County, Butler County, and western Kentucky," explains Hughes.

Transportation is one of his biggest concerns.

"Our roads, not only our major roads but our secondary makes it so important that we have someone that can speak up for getting our proper highways so that we can get back and forth," he says.

The injury lawyer-turned-politician says if he makes it to Frankfort he plans to fight against adding any type of "expanded gaming".

"I'm against that type of gambling. I don't think its good for our community," Hughes states.

A cigarette tax is not something he'd vote in favor of.

"I'm against raising taxes. I'm for fiscal responsibility. I want to look at ways we can save money," he adds.

Over the next few weeks, Hughes plans to spread his campaign message to the masses... even if that means working non-stop.

"Work 24 hours a day and that's what I'm going to do," with a smile.

This is Hughes' second run at a Senate seat.

He ran unsuccessfully back in 1996.

The Democratic party will select its candidate Saturday morning January 10 at 10 am in the Bowling Green Parks and Recreation multi-purpose room.