Staff Reports
The year 2023 is an election year of significant importance in Kentucky, where Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat in a traditionally red state, faces the challenge of seeking re-election while also potentially positioning himself for the 2028 presidential race. The Democracy Derby series by The Washington Examiner is delving into Beshear's prospects, the state's political landscape, and how Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell's health may impact the race. Let's take a closer look at these factors.
Election integrity is a crucial aspect of any election, and this holds true in Kentucky. Secretary of State Michael Adams, the incumbent, has already proven his mettle by successfully navigating the primary election against two conspiracy-oriented challengers. He is now gearing up for a general election battle against former state Rep. Charles “Buddy” Wheatley. Adams, a former McConnell Scholar at the University of Louisville, has garnered respect and admiration for his principled stance, notably standing against former President Donald Trump's claims of a stolen election in 2020, thus demonstrating his commitment to truth and accuracy.
Scott Jennings, a longtime adviser to McConnell and a college roommate of Adams, has praised Adams for his adept handling of various challenges, including his firm stand on election integrity. Adams won decisively in the 2019 election, defeating former Miss America Heather French Henry by a substantial margin of 64,000 votes. This election also marked Beshear's victory in the gubernatorial race, flipping Kentucky from its traditional red status.
Adams faced additional tests in his role as secretary of state, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He worked diligently to adapt election laws to the crisis and collaborated with Beshear and the state legislature to make some of these changes permanent. Despite Trump's resounding victory in Kentucky in 2020, the specter of stolen election claims loomed. Adams had to contend with a primary opponent, Stephen Knipper, who prioritized restoring election integrity. However, Adams secured an impressive 63.9% of the primary vote, indicating strong support from voters.
If I don't win the May 16 primary, this person will be your next deputy secretary of state. Watch here as she testifies against my Photo ID to Vote bill. We must keep the cranks, kooks and RINOs out of this office. #VoteAdams pic.twitter.com/9tcFem5SoC
— Sec. Michael Adams (R-KY) (@Adams4SecState) May 10, 2023
These circumstances position Adams favorably for the general election. Unlike some other Republican candidates, he won't have to navigate the complex issue of abortion, which is a major concern for State Attorney General Daniel Cameron in his gubernatorial bid. Moreover, Democrats cannot criticize Adams for entertaining claims of a stolen election, as he steadfastly opposed them. Adams has also successfully advanced conservative priorities, including implementing voter ID requirements and improving the accuracy of voter rolls. These achievements, along with his motto of "Easier to vote and harder to cheat," resonate with Kentucky voters in a traditionally red state.
Stephen Voss, a political science professor at the University of Kentucky, acknowledges Adams's strengths as he heads into the statewide elections. Adams enjoys statements of support from independent and Democratic voters and has earned respect from both sides of the aisle.
With McConnell, often regarded as the "godfather of the Kentucky Republican Party," advocating for the GOP to move beyond Trump's influence, Adams may epitomize the kind of candidate he envisions. Adams's ability to appeal to voters across party lines could attract Democratic voters and challenge the perception that all Republicans are adversaries. This dynamic adds intrigue to the upcoming elections, and the Democracy Derby series promises to provide further insights as the year unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates.
