Mitch McConnell, Kentucky’s senior U.S. senator and former Senate Republican leader, has secured nearly $2.6 billion in federal funding for the state in fiscal year 2026, directing investments toward higher education, defense infrastructure and transportation projects.
McConnell, who has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 1985 and serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, said the funding reflects priorities identified across the state. According to his office, he has helped secure more than $65 billion in federal funding for Kentucky during his Senate tenure.
More than $230 million of the FY2026 allocation will support post-secondary institutions, including the University of Louisville, University of Kentucky and Madisonville Community College. The funding will expand research in agriculture, defense, medicine and science, while strengthening academic programs in mental health and aviation.
Defense-related investments total more than $634 million, aimed at reinforcing Kentucky’s defense industrial base. Of that amount, $73 million is allocated to Fort Knox for facility construction and modernization, while $56 million will support a new air traffic control tower and additional hangars at Fort Campbell.
Transportation projects will receive $30 million, including support for the I-69 Ohio River project in Henderson and improvements to the Hal Rogers Parkway.
“As a long-time member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have always seen it as my duty to meet with constituent groups, understand their needs, and help deliver on those needs through additional federal funds designated for Kentucky,” McConnell said.
He added that the funding is intended to support long-term economic growth and infrastructure modernization across the state.
