‘We are looking for good candidates that are running for the right reasons, that push back against and reject anger politics and that are ultimately focused on the everyday challenges that our families face.’
Beshear was officially sworn in for another term shortly after midnight — a Bluegrass State ritual every four years to ensure continuity at the head of state government.
The outcome gives divided government another stamp of voter approval in Kentucky, as Republicans hold supermajorities in both chambers of the legislature.
Beshear presided during a turbulent period marked by the global COVID-19 pandemic and devastating natural disasters.
In the last 20 years, the Kentucky governorship has changed hands between Democrats and Republicans four times.
‘Together, we’ve been through a pandemic, flooding, tornadoes, two wind storms, two ice storms, the polar plunge and now the hottest summer on record.’
The Republican nominee is trying to cultivate strong support in GOP-leaning rural regions to offset Gov. Andy Beshear’s expected strength in the metropolitan areas of Louisville and Lexington.
Republican Secretary of State Michael Adams, who pushed successfully for expanded voter access, won his Primary against two candidates, including one who cast doubt on the integrity of elections.
The November General Election will be closely watched for signs of the mood of conservative voters.
GOP voters say they are basing decisions in the May 16 Primary mostly on which Republican would pose the toughest challenge to the Democratic incumbent.
