Four candidates for Kentucky's Democratic Senate nomination, including front-runner Amy McGrath, faced off in a candidate forum Thursday night.

The event, hosted by Indivisible Northern Kentucky, also featured state Rep. Charles Booker, retired Marine Mike Broihier and mental health counselor Jimmy Ausbrooks.

The candidates are competing for a shot to take on longtime Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell in November's general election.

Candidates break down their reasons for running

In their opening statements, all four candidates touched on their opposition to McConnell's policies and made their cases for why they think they're best equipped to beat him.

More coverage:Booker contrasts with McGrath in endorsing Bernie Sanders

Candidates differ on Medicare for All

When asked about rising health care costs and for their views on "Medicare for All," candidates offered a variety of ideas.

Booker talked about his own experiences as a diabetic while expressing his support for Medicare for All. Broihier said he supports expanding the Affordable Care Act to include a public option but added he would support Medicare for All if the ACA was repealed.

McGrath also backed the idea of adding a public option to the ACA.

Read more:When it comes to guns, McGrath walks tightrope as McConnell works to fend off advocates

McGrath, Broihier highlight military experience

The two veterans on stage both touched on their military experience when asked about foreign policy.

On the role of the U.S. in foreign wars, Broihier said he believes American presence in Afghanistan was justified because of Osama bin Laden but that there was no need for the U.S. to invade Iraq.

McGrath said Congress needs to reassert its constitutional role in foreign policy.

McGrath says she's 'for the Second Amendment'

McGrath voiced her support for Second Amendment rights during the forum, but added that she believes gun owners support more regulation of guns. She also accused McConnell of being "bought off" by the gun lobby.

Booker and Ausbrooks also critiqued McConnell's handling of gun control legislation.

Reach digital producer Mary Ramsey at mramsey@gannett.com and follow her on Twitter @mcolleen1996. Support local journalism in our communities by subscribing to The Courier Journal today.