PADUCAH - The mics have been checked, the podiums are in place and last minute preparations are under way at the Carson Center.

On Thursday morning, Rand Paul and Jack Conway will take center stage there to debate.

Lynn King will serve as the debate's moderator and says she is glad to see the area getting attention.

"We have very important projects. We have come together as a region, made a list, and are interested to hear what commitments these men have for us in West Kentucky."

The attention, Mark Wilson says, is long overdue, "It's about time."

Wilson is the Fancy Farm Picnic Chairman and he knows firsthand the importance of voters meeting candidates.

"They want them to show up, not just see them on the tube or hear them on the radio," he said.

He said it is a smart move for Paul and Conway to head to western Kentucky.

The latest poll numbers show Paul up by as much as ten points.  But some political experts said the race is just too early to call.  Both men are pushing full steam ahead.

"There is a big voter base down here and these appearances could definitely sway voters one way or another," Wilson said.

In fact, Lynn King said enough of those west Kentucky votes could sway the election.

"We may influence the outcome of the election, so it is important for these candidates to hear what we have to say in west Kentucky."

State Senator Bob Leeper and his opponent Rex Smith are also scheduled to appear at Thursday's debate.  The debate begins at 7:15 a.m. at the Carson Center and will be streamed live on our website.

Rand Paul will also make stops Thursday in Mayfield, Bardwell and on Murray State's campus.

Jack Conway will head to Elizabethtown, then spend Friday and Saturday in west Kentucky.