A 44-Year Legacy: How "Hal" Rogers Transformed Eastern Kentucky

By Staff Reporter | Somerset-Pulaski Advocate

(AP) Assoicate Press Photo (C) 2025 All Rights Reserved

Somerset, Kentucky (SPA)---For more than four decades, Congressman Harold "Hal" Rogers has been a constant and powerful voice for Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District. As the longest-serving member of Congress from Kentucky and the current Dean of the U.S. House of Representatives, his longevity is not merely a number, but a testament to a career dedicated to the economic and social revitalization of a region he calls home. Throughout his tenure, Congressman Rogers has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Eastern Kentucky, with his contributions to the Somerset and Pulaski County area standing as prime examples of his lasting legacy.

Born in rural Kentucky, Rogers has always maintained a deep connection to his constituents, understanding the unique challenges of Appalachia firsthand. He began his public service as the Commonwealth's Attorney for Pulaski and Rockcastle counties, a role he held for over a decade before being elected to Congress in 1980. From the very beginning, his vision was clear: to leverage his position in Washington to bring opportunity, infrastructure, and hope to a region that desperately needed it.

One of his most visible and impactful projects in the Somerset area is The Center for Rural Development. Conceived by Rogers and brought to life with a combination of federal and state funding, the Center opened in 1996 and has since become a cornerstone of economic and community development for 45 counties in Southern and Eastern Kentucky. This state-of-the-art facility has not only hosted countless events and conventions but has also served as a launchpad for initiatives aimed at business development, youth leadership, and technology training. It stands as a physical manifestation of his belief in the potential of the region's people.

Beyond economic development, Rogers has been a fierce advocate for critical infrastructure projects in Pulaski County. He has been instrumental in securing funding for key transportation improvements, including the expansion of U.S. 27 and, most recently, requesting significant federal funding to begin construction on the much-anticipated Somerset Northern Bypass. These road projects are not just about convenience; they are vital arteries for economic growth, making the region more accessible to new businesses and tourism. His efforts also helped secure federal dollars to expand and enhance the Lake Cumberland Regional Airport, further boosting the area’s connectivity.

Rogers' work has also extended to addressing some of the most pressing issues facing the region. In the fight against the opioid epidemic, he launched Operation UNITE, a comprehensive program focused on a three-pronged approach of law enforcement, treatment, and education. In Pulaski County, this initiative has provided crucial resources and support programs for families affected by substance abuse. Similarly, he co-founded the PRIDE program, a grassroots movement to clean up illegal dumps and improve the environment, helping to preserve the natural beauty of the region.

As a senior member and former chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Rogers has used his seniority to bring federal resources directly to his constituents. His influence has been critical in funding a wide array of projects, from water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in Pulaski County to educational programs at Somerset Community College. His longevity in office has allowed him to build the relationships and political capital necessary to champion the needs of his district on a national scale.

For over 44 years, Hal Rogers has served as more than just a congressman; he has been a relentless advocate, a visionary, and a champion for Eastern Kentucky. His contributions in Somerset and Pulaski County, from infrastructure to economic development and community health, have not only transformed the area but have also laid a foundation for future prosperity. His legacy is one of unwavering dedication, proving that a leader with deep roots and a clear vision can truly make a lasting difference in the lives of the people they serve.

Prestonsburg attorney Ned Pillersdorf is hoping to unseat longtime Republican U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers in 2026. Pillersdorf, an civil rights attorney from Floyd County, formally announced his candidacy on July 4, 2025 at the Rosenberg Square in Prestonsburg, the Floyd County seat.