by Kody Fairfield

According to Michael Gossum, the political director at WBKO in Bowling Green, Kentucky, incumbent Kentucky Senator Rand Paul (R), has picked up an an across-the-aisle endorsement from the Democrat Adair County Judge-Executive, Michael Stephens.

.@RandPaul picks up an endorsement from across the aisle. Democrat, Adair County Judge-Executive Michael Stephens endorses Paul over Gray. — Michael Gossum (@fmgossum) October 18, 2016

This is in lieu of supporting Paul’s opponent and current Mayor of Lexington, Kentucky, Jim Gray.

Even more stinging to Gray’s contest against Paul may be the remarks made by Stephens in his endorsement of Paul, stating that he would root his support in “principle,” and do what was “best” for his community.

My support for Rand Paul is rooted in principle, not party, because my top priority is doing what is best for my community.

This should be seen as very high praise from Judge Stephens to Sen. Paul, especially in a political atmosphere where party seems to outweigh any other quality a candidate may have.

Sen. Paul has responded, saying that he was honored to get an endorsement from across the aisle.

With only 20 days until the November election, the latest poll conducted back in July by Harper (R) shows Sen. Paul with a comfortable 12 point lead over Mayor Gray.