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Trump rally marks end of contentious race for governor

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LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The streets in downtown Lexington are quiet on Sunday morning, but Monday could be a different scene when President Donald Trump comes to town.

Some of Trump's supporters already have set up camp in Rupp Arena's parking lot hoping to be the first in line for this highly anticipated rally.

Some of his supporters came from out of town days before the rally and are braving the cold conditions to get a good spot inside Rupp Arena.

All eyes are on the race for governor, and Trump's visit reflects just how nationalized this race has become.

Gov. Matt Bevin has leaned hard on his GOP allies in Washington, D.C. and has campaigned throughout Kentucky with Housing Secretary Ben Carson, Vice President Mike Pence and, on Monday, Trump.

Bevin has used some of his speeches and rallies to bash abortion and impeachment, while Democratic challenger Andy Beshear has turned his attention to rural healthcare and public education.

"We believe the people of Kentucky know that a governor doesn't have an impact on federal issues," said Beshear. "They know that this race isn't about what's going on in the White House, but what's going on in their house."

The winner of Tuesday's election will be leading Kentucky into the next decade, but this could have national implications. And a Beshear victory would not only be seen as a referendum on Trump, but could be a sign of what's to come in 2020.

LEX 18 will have continuous coverage of Trump's visit, including live coverage of his speech on Monday night on Evening Edition.