The selection was announced Tuesday by the House Republican caucus. In the role, Bray will be responsible for gauging support for the caucus's legislative priorities.

Bray, in a statement, said he was "honored by the confidence my colleagues have placed in me."

"Kentuckians made it clear this election that affordability, accountability, and trust in government matter," Bray said. "Those priorities have guided the work we do in Frankfort for almost a decade and will continue to do so."

Nemes, of Middletown, was one of nine Republican incumbents in the General Assembly who lost their seats in last week's election. Most of the districts that flipped are in suburban areas of Louisville, where Democrats made inroads.

Despite those losses, Republicans retain supermajorities in both the House and Senate as the 2027 legislative session approaches in less than two months.

Both caucuses announced that the rest of their leadership teams will remain unchanged. In the House, Republicans reelected Speaker David Osborne of Prospect and Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade of Stanford to fifth terms. Majority Floor Leader Steven Rudy and Majority Caucus Chair Suzanne Miles will also continue in their roles.

In the Senate, President Robert Stivers of Manchester will continue as the top Republican. President Pro Tempore David Givens of Greensburg, Majority Floor Leader Max Wise of Campbellsville, Majority Whip Mike Wilson of Bowling Green, and Majority Caucus Chair Robby Mills of Henderson will also keep their positions.

The leadership elections come as Republicans prepare to set their agenda for the upcoming session, with Bray now tasked with helping to build consensus within the caucus on key votes.