Lexington councilwoman announces reelection decision: ‘Did not come easily'
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Lexington Councilmember Denise Gray has announced she will not run for reelection to represent the sixth district.
Councilwoman Gray said in a news release on Sunday, June 8, that she wanted to share the news early with her constituents because she believes the community deserves transparency.
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Gray, who has served the sixth district since November 2022, said a factor that weighed heavily on her was her treatment by the media in the coverage of her experience with sexual assault.
On Aug. 8, 2024, Councilwoman Gray filed a protective order against fellow councilmember Branda Monarrez stemming from alleged unwanted sexual contact on two occasions, dating back to October 2021.
'The lack of empathy and disregard for my humanity during that time was not only hurtful, but it was also a painful reminder of the barriers Black women too often face when we speak truth and stand in our power,' Gray wrote. 'Despite that treatment, I continued to show up and serve with courage, compassion, and commitment. But I will not pretend it did not affect me, it did.'
In August 2024, Monarrez was reportedly barred by a court order from attending city council meetings in person. In November, Emma Curtis was elected to serve Lexington's 4th District, defeating Monarrez with 51% of the vote.
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Councilwoman Gray said she hopes qualified, passionate leaders who care deeply about the district she represents will step forward to run with the heart and conviction that the role demands.
'Serving you, my neighbors, my hometown community, and the district where I was raised has been an honor that words can hardly capture,' Gray said. 'Together we've asked hard questions, challenged the status quo, and worked toward a more just and equitable Lexington. I am proud of what we've built.'
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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