Kentucky Politics Distilled

Kentucky Public Radio's February legislative update

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:46:00 -0500

The Kentucky General Assembly is about two-thirds of the way through its legislative session. Kentucky Public Radio Capitol Reporter Sylvia Goodman sat down with Statehouse Enterprise Reporter Joe Sonka with a legislative update.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Democrats appeal redistricting ruling

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 14:44:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky Politics…Democrats are hoping the state Supreme Court will strike down Republican-drawn redistricting maps. And next year’s political races continue to take shape as candidates file to run for governor, attorney general, and more. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Abortion bans head to the Supreme Court

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 16:39:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics… The Supreme Court heard a challenge to Kentucky’s abortion ban. Gov. Andy Beshear announced an executive order legalizing medical cannabis. And Mitch McConnell fended off a challenge to his leadership position. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Abortion amendment fails, Rand Paul sails to reelection

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 15:04:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics… A win for abortion rights advocates as Kentucky voters defeat Amendment 2, the closely watched anti-abortion amendment on the ballot. U.S Senator Rand Paul scores a third term, defeating his Democratic opponent Charles Booker.. And Republicans rack up state house and senate seats, increasing their supermajorities in both branches. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton take one last pre-election look during this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

It's Almost Election Day (Finally)

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 14:03:00 -0400

We’re in the home stretch ahead of this year’s General Election. Candidates are making their pitches across the state and voters are starting to cast their ballots. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton take one last pre-election look during this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Lawmakers spar over abortion "misinformation"

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:55:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics… Lawmakers from the pro-life caucus hold a presser to dispel ‘misinformation’ around the abortion amendment… Governor Beshear announces an ambitious education plan… And a look at early voting options ahead of Election day.. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and WFPL’s Bec Feldhaus Adams have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Rand Paul and Charles Booker hit final campaign trail

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 15:34:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics… US Senate candidates Rand Paul and Charles Booker hit the road in the final leg of their campaigns. And there was a last-minute disqualification for a state legislative seat. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan (CAR-thih-CAY-un) and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Abortion rights group outraises opponents, big PAC money in KY judicial races

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 14:19:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…Abortion rights supporters continue to outraise opponents in the fight over Kentucky’s anti-abortion consitutional amendment. A conservative super PAC is pouring money into Kentucky judicial races. And the state Supreme Court heard arguments over a school choice law. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Rand Paul releases ad on Charles Booker, Gov. Beshear leads in fundraising fight

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 15:06:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…Senator Rand Paul released a controversial ad accusing his Democratic opponent Charles Booker of endorsing violent behavior… Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear continues to outraise his Republican opponents…. And a Republican state Supreme Court candidate sued a state ethics commission. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Rand Paul declines to debate Charles Booker, Amendment 1 on the ballot

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:23:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics...Republican Senator Rand Paul declined to debate Democratic challenger Charles Booker. Voters will have to make a choice on an amendment to give the legislature more power. And the state recouped a 15 million dollar investment from a failed aluminum plant. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Officials try to recruit younger poll workers

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 16:03:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…election officials are trying to get younger people to sign up to be poll workers. A Republican candidate for governor announced their running mate. And Attorney General Daniel Cameron is defending the former president in his legal battle with the Justice Department. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Kelly Craft holds her first gubernatorial rally, campaigns ahead of abortion amendment heat up

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 16:32:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky Politics Distilled…..Former U.N. Ambassador Kelly Craft held a rally for her gubernatorial bid. Campaigns on both sides ahead of the constitutional amendment on abortion are heating up. And a candidate for a Louisville-area legislative seat withdrew from the race. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Kelly Craft shakes up governor's race

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 15:37:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics….another high profile candidate has joined the Republican race for Kentucky governor. But Democratic incumbent Andy Beshear says he’s not worried. Plus, Independent voter registrations are growing more than traditional political parties in the state. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: US Senate Candidate Charles Booker gets Beshear endorsement, gubernatorial candidates ramp up fundraising efforts

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 17:29:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, US Senate Democratic candidate Charles Booker clinches a campaign endorsement from Governor Andy Beshear. And for many GOP gubernatorial candidates, it’s time to ramp up fundraising close to the campaign finance finish line. Plus, temporary housing in the form of travel trailers will soon arrive in flood-hit Eastern Kentucky amid calls for permanent housing assistance solutions. WFPL’s Bec Feldhaus Adams and Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan talk about it on this week’s episode of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Eastern KY flood relief package passes in special legislative session

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 17:09:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky Politics…a massive relief package for eastern Kentucky passed during a three-day special legislative session.

While both parties are in agreement over the measure, some lawmakers question if it does enough for housing assistance.

And representatives continue to voice frustrations over FEMA assistance.

Kentucky Public Radio's Ryland Barton and Divya Karthikeyan talk about it on this week’s episode of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Abortion ban heads to Ky. Supreme Court

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:17:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…locals and officials urge FEMA to speed up aid for eastern Kentucky flood victims. And abortion is still illegal in Kentucky. The state Supreme Court says it’ll consider the matter later this year. WFPL's Bec Feldhaus Adams and Kentucky Public Radio’s Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Fancy Farm recap, Biden visits Eastern Kentucky, and a special session on the horizon

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 17:13:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky Politics…the 2022 Fancy Farm political picnic was dominated by Republican politicians and voters. But Attorney General and GOP gubernatorial candidate Daniel Cameron took the heat during his speech for his role in the investigation into Breonna Taylor's death.

U.S. President Joe Biden visited Eastern Kentucky in the aftermath of the floods to tour the region and pledge federal help and support for victims. But Governor Andy Beshear’s plan isn’t entirely going to rely on aid and assistance from FEMA. A special legislative session is on the cards and Beshear aims to pass a relief package similar to the Western Kentucky tornado relief fund.

Also, the Kentucky Judicial Campaign Ethics Committee, a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, has issued a statement on the Northern Kentucky Supreme Court race where an anti-abortion Republican legislator Joe Fischer is running against incumbent Justice Michelle Keller. The committee's concerns have been around the partisan nature of campaigning in the election.

WFPL’s Bec Feldhaus Adams and Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan talk about it on this week’s episode of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled is our weekly rundown of the big news — and sometimes the odd news — happening in the state Capitol.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Flooding devastates eastern Kentucky

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 14:48:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a massive flood continues to devastate the eastern part of the state. The Department of Justice brought charges against officers involved in the Breonna Taylor raid. Meanwhile politicians are gathering on the other side of the state for the annual Fancy Farm event. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

A Supreme Court justice race to watch, Beshear to endorse Booker

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 12:44:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a Supreme Court judicial race may have far-reaching implications for abortion rights and robust judiciary.

Governor Andy Beshear plans to endorse Democratic candidate Charles Booker for U.S. Senate.

And Kentucky’s five Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives voted no on a bill that codifies federal protections for same-sex marriage, and just one Democratic representative voted yes.

Kentucky Republicans outnumber Democrats for the first time

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 16:25:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…the number of Republicans finally surpassed Democrats for the first time in state history. Hundreds of new laws took effect. And it looks like Kentucky is going to have a huge budget surplus. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Abortions still legal

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 15:14:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…abortions are still legal in the state, but access all depends on a lawsuit working its way through the courts system. And we got a glimpse into who’s raising the most money for next year’s race for governor. WFPL’s Bec Feldhaus Adams joins Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Abortion ban triggered, paused

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 15:33:00 -0400

LEDE: This week in Kentucky politics…fights over abortion rights continued to play out in the court system. Abortions in the state were halted and then allowed to resume amid a high-profile lawsuit. And President Biden is apparently nominating a Republican to a federal judgeship in the state. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this wee’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Trump backs Cameron in governor's race

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 16:40:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…another twist in the Republican race for governor. And Governor Andy Beshear starts testing the waters on legalizing cannabis. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: GOP race for governor gets a little more crowded

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 16:32:00 -0400

LEDE: This week in Kentucky politics…another Republican has gotten into Kentucky’s race for governor. And state officials are worried about high gas prices and a potential teacher shortage. Kentucky Public Radio’s Divya Karthikeyan and Ryland Barton have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Lawmakers still cold on gun safety

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 16:28:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…lawmakers are still hesitant on weighing in on the gun debate after the school shooting in Texas. And campaign season is heating up as candidates look ahead to this year’s midterm elections and the governor’s race next year. Bec Feldhaus (FELD house) Adams joins Kentucky Public Radio’s Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Thoughts, prayers and few solutions after another school shooting

Fri, 27 May 2022 15:24:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…political leaders provided condolences but few solutions after the tragic shooting in Texas. Kentucky Public Radio’s Ryland Barton and Divya Karthikeyan (CAR-thih-CAY-un) have this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Primaries bring "liberty" surprises

Fri, 20 May 2022 16:50:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…the primary elections brought a few surprises and we now know who will be on the ballot in the fall. Kentucky Public Radio’s Ryland Barton and Divya Karthikeyan join us for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Power company politics

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 16:52:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…the sale of a big power company in Kentucky has gotten a little more complicated. A new poll tells us about Gov. Beshear’s popularity two and a half years into the job. And primary season is here. Bec Feldhaus (FELD-house) Adams joins Kentucky Public Radio’s Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

The end of a very busy legislative session

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 16:35:00 -0400

The General Assembly wrapped up this year’s legislative session this week with a flurry of activity…overriding vetoes, passing last-minute bills and saying goodbye to retiring lawmakers. WFPL's Bec Feldhaus Adams joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Beshear vetoes charter schools, anti-trans bills

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 14:25:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Governor Andy Beshear vetoed more bills, but the legislature is poised to override him. There’s only two more days left in this year’s lawmaking session, and advocates are pushing for a variety of efforts ahead of the deadline. Jonese Franklin from member station WFPL joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Veto period begins

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 16:23:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…lawmakers passed a flurry of conservative bills ahead of the veto deadline. Democratic Governor Andy Beshear now has the chance to sign or reject what’s passed out of the legislature, but Republicans can easily override him. WFPL's Bec Feldhaus Adams joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

The legislative session home stretch

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 17:58:00 -0400

With less than a week before a critical deadline during Kentucky’s legislative session, lawmakers have been rushing bills through the process. And while Democratic Governor Andy Beshear can veto anything that passes, Republicans can easily override him. WFPL's Bec Feldhaus Adams joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Republicans move to tighten public benefits

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:01:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…it’s crunch time for this year’s legislative session. Republican lawmakers continued the push for “business friendly” bills, which critics say will hurt the poor and disconnected. Jonese Franklin from member station WFPL joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Ky. Lawmakers move to limit mask, vaccine mandates

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:18:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…lawmakers advanced bills banning mask and vaccine requirements and ending the coronavirus state of emergency. Another anti-abortion bill popped up, this one mirrors the law currently before the U.S. Supreme Court. And the medical marijuana bill is back. WFPL's Clare Roth joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

'Omnibus' anti-abortion bill passes Ky. House

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 14:49:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…House Republicans quickly advanced a bill to restrict abortion even further in the state. And lawmakers continued a string of antisemitic statements at the legislature. Jonese Franklin from WFPL joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Republicans introduce long-awaited 'tax reform'

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 14:27:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Republicans want to get rid of the income tax and lean more on sales taxes. Critics say that’ll help the rich and hurt the poor. Mitch McConnell blamed President Biden for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. And a Louisville woman will become the first openly-LGBTQ member of the state House. Clare Roth from member station WFPL joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: GOP bill sets how race, U.S. history are taught

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 17:42:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Republicans advanced a bill to set new requirements for how teachers talk about race and history in the classroom. And some lawmakers want to tighten up bail restrictions after a man tried to shoot a candidate for mayor in Louisville. WFPL's Jonese Franklin joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Lawmakers advance cuts to unemployment

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 17:20:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Republicans quickly advanced a bill to cut benefits for unemployed people. A bill banning trans girls from girls sports passed out of a legislative committee. And the lawsuit challenging Kentucky’s redistricting maps got its first hearing. Jonese Franklin from member station WFPL joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Dems whiff at filing deadline

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 16:33:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics: A new poll shows Gov. Andy Beshear with a high approval rating. The stage is set for who’s running in this year’s elections. And lawmakers want the power to call themselves in for a special legislative session. Jonese Franklin from member station WFPL joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Ky. Democrats Sue To Block GOP Redistricting Maps

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:10:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Democrats sued to try and block Republican-drawn redistricting maps. Mitch McConnell insinuated that African Americans aren’t Americans. And lawmakers pushed the state budget a little farther through the process. Jonese Franklin from partner station WFPL joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Beshear makes case for sweeping budget

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 14:59:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Governor Andy Beshear unveiled his budget plan. The legislature passed a redistricting plan during a rare-Saturday session. And in a bipartisan moment, lawmakers passed a $200 million relief bill to help communities affected by last month’s tornadoes. Jonese Franklin from member station WFPL joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Republicans Tackle Redistricting

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 18:09:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, legislators unveiled redistricting maps and began rushing them through the lawmaking process. The plans bolster Republican seats in the legislature and Congress and make it harder for Democrats to get elected. And, while everyone was focused on redistricting, House Republicans released their budget proposal.

Kentuckians come together after devastating tornado

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 16:29:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…communities came together after a tornado ripped through western Kentucky, killing dozens and destroying hundreds of homes and businesses across a wide swath of the state. President Joe Biden came to survey damage. And state leaders put partisanship aside for the moment to help the state rebuild. Derek Operle from WKMS joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Beshear Gives Social Workers A Raise

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 15:27:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Gov. Andy Beshear gave raises to social workers after they sounded the alarm on low pay and high caseloads. Attorney General Daniel Cameron’s search warrant task force wrapped up, recommending a training video for police officers. And Congressman Thomas Massie posted a gun-filled Christmas photo days after the fatal school shooting in Michigan. WFPL's Clare Roth joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Anti-abortion lawmaker running for Ky. Supreme Court

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 16:20:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, an anti-abortion legislator is running for the state Supreme Court as Roe v. Wade hangs in the balance of the U.S. Supreme Court. Attorney General Daniel Cameron notched two legal victories as federal vaccine mandates were struck down in the courts. And a Democratic legislator has filed a bill to decriminalize cannabis possession. WFPL's Jonese Franklin joins Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Beshear Merges Cabinets That Handled Unemployment

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 16:20:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Gov. Andy Beshear announced he’s merging two major cabinets in state government. Republican legislators expressed skepticism about Louisville’s new police review board. And the state’s ethics commission alleged that former Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes misused her office for political purposes. Jonese Franklin from member station WFPL joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

McConnell Joins Democrats On Infrastructure

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 16:29:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics…Mitch McConnell celebrated the passage of the infrastructure bill, even though Kentucky’s other Republicans in Congress voted against it. Legislators are drawing new political maps for the state behind closed doors. And Charles Booker got a big endorsement ahead of his run for Senate next year. WFPL's Jonese Franklin joined Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

GOP Snubs Beshear 'Hero Pay' Work Group

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 16:33:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…Republicans snubbed Gov. Andy Beshear’s request to work together on bonuses for essential workers. A big race is brewing in Frankfort—a judge who reviews many lawsuits against the state government--has drawn a challenger. And federal election officials have dropped the Republican Party of Kentucky’s complaint against a Democratic radio host. WFPL's Jonese Franklin joins capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Yarmuth Announces Retirement

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 19:10:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Congressman John Yarmuth announced he won’t run for reelection. Legislators still haven’t weighed in on how they’ll draw new political maps during the upcoming redistricting process. And the U.S. Supreme Court heard Attorney General Daniel Cameron’s request to defend a defunct abortion law.

Former Ky. Democrats Chair Ordered To Prison

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 15:52:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a former chair of the Kentucky Democratic Party was ordered to prison for making illegal campaign contributions. A judge struck down the state’s new tax-credit scholarship program. And lawmakers once again heard pitches for the state to legalize medical marijuana.

Nearly All Schools To Require Masks

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 17:29:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, almost all Kentucky school districts have announced they’ll require masks after the legislature scrapped the statewide mandate. The Senate president says the governor might call another special legislative session to attract and retain healthcare workers. And a court heard arguments over the new tax break for donating to private school scholarships.

Lawmakers Ax School Mask Mandate

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 16:53:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear called a special legislative session to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Lawmakers got rid of the school mask mandate and gave schools slightly more flexibility to go to remote learning during the pandemic. And the virus continues to surge across the state and strain hospital capacity. WFPL Education Reporter Jess Clark joins Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

COVID Surges, No New Mandates Yet

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 18:48:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the coronavirus continued to slam hospitals across the state, but Gov. Andy Beshear isn’t imposing any new restrictions. A Republican lawmaker filed a bill to ban businesses from requiring employees to get the vaccine. And Mitch McConnell said he’s perplexed by people who don’t want to get the vaccine.

Beshear Mandates Masks In Schools

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 17:57:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear and the state Board of Education issued mask mandates for public schools as the coronavirus delta variant continues to spread. U.S. Senator Rand Paul disclosed (long after he should have) that his wife invested in a coronavirus treatment drug. And new census data shows rural populations declining in Kentucky.

Fancy Farm And Vaccine Politics

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 16:53:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics…politicians have been gearing up for Fancy Farm, which is still happening this weekend despite the spread of the COVID-19 delta variant. Mitch McConnell started airing radio ads urging people to get the vaccine. And Gov. Andy Beshear hasn’t issued a new mask mandate, but says he’s not taking it off the table.

Charles Booker Launches U.S. Senate Run

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 17:08:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, former state Representative Charles Booker launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate seat held by Rand Paul. Paul says he’s confident he’ll win reelection. And two lawmakers say they’ll pass a bill allowing student athletes to make money off their name, image and likeness.

McConnell Kills Capitol Riot Commission

Fri, 28 May 2021 22:30:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell blocked the commission investigating the January 6th Capitol riot. Several labor unions and nonprofits called on Gov. Andy Beshear to keep the $300 supplement to unemployment benefits. And Attorney General Daniel Cameron argued that courts can’t waive the $300 fee to expunge felony records. We talk about it all on this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

McConnell Resists Capitol Riot Commission

Sat, 22 May 2021 23:19:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell came out AGAINST creating a commission to investigate the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. A Baptist adoption agency refused to renew its contract with the state because of a nondiscrimination clause. And a state legislator got his DUI dismissed due to a recent state Supreme Court ruling. Amina Elahi and Ryland Barton recap it all on this week's episode.

Feds Investigating Louisville Police

Mon, 03 May 2021 11:22:00 -0400

The Department of Justice launched an investigation into Louisville’s police department. Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said he doesn’t think the country is systemically racist. And the state found out it won’t lose or gain any congressional seats during the reapportionment process. We cover it all on this episode.

McConnell Dismisses Latest Relief Package

Sat, 10 Apr 2021 12:02:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell said the state doesn’t need the most recent round of federal coronavirus aid. That’s even though the Republican-led legislature already spent more than $1 billion of the relief funds. He also criticized companies boycotting Georgia after passing new election restrictions.

Legislative Session Ends With Spending, No-Knock Limits

Sat, 03 Apr 2021 14:50:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, lawmakers overrode all of Gov. Andy Beshear’s vetoes and passed dozens of bills during the final days of the legislative session. They also set aside more than a billion for infrastructure projects funded by the federal coronavirus package.

Last Days Of The Legislative Session

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:34:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear signed dozens of bills passed by the legislature, but vetoed several as well. Next week lawmakers will return to consider overriding vetoes on the last two days of this year’s legislative session.

The Veto Period Rush

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 16:33:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, lawmakers rushed more than 100 bills through the legislature ahead of Gov. Andy Beshear’s veto period. The last-minute flurry included massive tax breaks, and more attempts to curtail Beshear’s powers during the pandemic. But several high-profile bills didn’t make it across the finish line.

Legislature Considers Criminalizing Insults Against Police

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 15:50:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the state Senate passed a bill making it a crime to insult a police officer and boosting penalties for protest-related charges. And on the eve of the anniversary of Breonna Taylor’s death, lawmakers passed a watered-down version of a bill limiting no-knock search warrants.

Reforming Elections And No-Knock Search Warrants

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 18:14:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, a bill limiting — but not banning — no-knock warrants across the state gained momentum in the legislature. Lawmakers finally unveiled a long-promised election reform bill. And the committee reviewing petitions to impeach the governor and attorney general recommended dismissing the requests.

Rand Paul & The Mysterious Election Reform Bill

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 17:31:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Rand Paul urged state lawmakers to pass a mysterious bill that would change the election system. The debate over historical horse racing machines divided Republicans in the legislature. And criminal justice reform bills have been gaining momentum in the statehouse.

LMPD Audit, Impeachment Fever Continues

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 19:26:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, impeachment claims against Governor Andy Beshear continued to drag through the legislature, Rand Paul got the entire senate to go on record about Trump’s impeachment ahead of his trial, and Louisville released a scathing audit of its police department, showing over-policing of Black communities.

Minority Leader Mitch McConnell

Sat, 23 Jan 2021 18:25:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed several bills that passed out of the legislature. Three grand jurors from the Breonna Taylor case filed an impeachment petition against Attorney General Daniel Cameron, saying he misled the public. And Mitch McConnell returned to his role as senate minority leader.

Impeachment Fever

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 18:07:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, lawmakers created a committee to review a citizen impeachment petition against Gov. Andy Beshear. The move may have opened the door for more petitions to be filed against state politicians. Plus, officials are worried about a potential attack on the Kentucky capitol. And Mitch McConnell has once again found himself at the center of a presidential impeachment fight.

The General Assembly Returns

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:30:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the legislature returned and quickly advanced bills stripping the governor of his powers. All Kentucky members of Congress voted to accept the presidential election results, except for Hal Rogers, who cited unfounded claims of voter fraud. And after Democratic Senate victories in Georgia, Mitch McConnell will return to his role as minority leader.

Beshear Issues New Coronavirus Restrictions

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 12:22:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Beshear issued new coronavirus restrictions, banning indoor services at bars and restaurants and limiting gatherings. Republicans in the legislature quickly criticized the measures. And Kentucky’s GOP elected officials continued to question the outcome of the presidential election.

Supreme Court Upholds Beshear Coronavirus Orders

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 18:48:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the state Supreme Court ruled that Gov. Andy Beshear’s coronavirus-related restrictions are legal. Leaders of the Republican-led legislature said they still want to strip Beshear of those emergency powers. And Attorney General Daniel Cameron joined a lawsuit challenging mail-in ballots in Pennsylvania.

Republicans Surge In Statehouse

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 16:54:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Republicans picked up several seats in the state legislature. GOP leaders say they want to clip Gov. Andy Beshear’s emergency powers during the coronavirus pandemic. And Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell easily won reelection, and later refused to condemn president’s claims of voter fraud.

Early Voting During The Pandemic

Sat, 24 Oct 2020 17:03:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, early voting continues as the state enters into a new surge of the coronavirus pandemic. The state treasurer released a report accusing Gov. Beshear of improperly spending money to enforce coronavirus orders. And a new batch of polls came out showing Mitch McConnell ahead of Amy McGrath everywhere in Kentucky except Louisville.

McConnell And McGrath Debate

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 18:10:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell and Amy McGrath squared off in the only debate of the senate race this year. With less than three weeks until Election Day, both candidates have been crisscrossing the state in an effort to turn out voters. And early voting started this week. Election officials want voters to cast their ballots early.

The Breonna Taylor Decision

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 15:41:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced an indictment against one of the officers in the Breonna Taylor case, but many questions remain.

Gov. Andy Beshear and Taylor’s family are calling for Cameron to release the full investigation into her death. Meanwhile protests have erupted in Louisville and police response has gotten more intense.

Coronavirus Doubters

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 17:11:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, as the state surpassed 1,000 coronavirus-related deaths, Republican lawmakers cast doubt on the severity of the virus. Republicans and Democrats have called for a special legislative session on police reform. And Attorney General Daniel Cameron was on a list of potential Supreme Court justices unveiled by President Trump.

Derby, Law and Order

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 17:02:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Republican legislators criticized Gov. Andy Beshear for not condemning racial justice protests in Louisville. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell doubled down on his “law and order” strategy, publicizing his endorsement by the Fraternal Order of Police.

And it’s Derby week, but crowds will be at Churchill Downs -- at least not on the inside.

Kentuckians At The RNC

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 17:20:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, state elected officials rallied around Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention. Democratic senate candidate Amy McGrath released a cartoon campaign ad that had Mitch McConnell’s team crying foul. And state Rep. Charles Booker spoke at the March on Washington.

Absentee, Early Voting Expanded

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 18:52:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, officials finalized the plan for expanding mail-in and early voting during the upcoming election. Gov. Andy Beshear applied for President Trump’s supplement to unemployment benefits. And Mitch McConnell and Amy McGrath argued over what debates should look like in the final months of their race for U.S. Senate.

Federal Coronavirus Bill Stalls

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 16:39:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell sent lawmakers home for the month after a compromise couldn’t be reached on a new coronavirus bill. Gov. Andy Beshear said that the state won’t be able to afford President Trump’s executive order extending unemployment benefits. And Attorney General Daniel Cameron met with Breonna Taylor’s family, though he still doesn’t have a timeline on when the investigation into her death will be complete.

Unemployment Supplement Expires, Senate Race Heats Up

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 16:36:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell’s latest coronavirus relief bill stalled in Congress right after the $600 per week supplement to unemployment benefits expired.

Kentuckians got some fresh polling in the race between McConnell and Democratic challenger Amy McGrath, and McConnell accused McGrath of putting out a racist commercial.

McConnell Unveils New Coronavirus Bill

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 18:15:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell unveiled a new coronavirus relief bill, but it still has a long way to go before becoming law. Gov. Andy Beshear rolled back Kentucky’s reopening during the pandemic, closing all bars and reducing restaurant capacity. And the debate continues over whether all Kentuckians will be able to cast ballots by mail this fall.

No Budget Shortfall, Beshear Calls For More Funding

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 12:03:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the state avoided a budget shortfall despite initial predictions that tax revenue would plummet in the first months of the coronavirus pandemic. But Gov. Andy Beshear says the next financial year could be bleak. The state Supreme Court refused Beshear’s request to disqualify a judge from a lawsuit challenging his coronavirus executive orders. And a group is suing once again to try and keep the Marsy’s Law constitutional amendment off the ballot.

McGrath To Take On McConnell

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 14:08:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Amy McGrath won Kentucky’s Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. She’ll now try to unify the party with the help of her former opponent, state Rep. Charles Booker. And Mitch McConnell gave us a taste this week of how he’ll be campaigning, releasing a new ad that drums up images of a culture war.

Underdog Democratic Senate Candidates Nab Endorsements

Fri, 22 May 2020 17:37:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, big endorsements came in for underdog candidates in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. But Mitch McConnell and Democratic frontrunner Amy McGrath are already looking toward the general election. And the deadline to register to vote in the primary is Tuesday.

State Prepares For Budget Cuts

Fri, 15 May 2020 18:41:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear asked state agencies to come up with plans to significantly cut their budgets over the coming months. Mitch McConnell said he still doesn’t support sending more money to states unless business are shielded from lawsuits during the pandemic. And calls are mounting for an independent investigation into a Louisville police raid that killed 26-year-old Breonna Taylor.

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More Testing Needed As State Reopens

Fri, 08 May 2020 17:02:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear announced a new schedule of business reopenings during the coronavirus pandemic. Beshear has moved on from his initial statement that the state wouldn’t open up until it sees a two-week decline in confirmed cases. And the governor revised his restrictions on traveling to the state during the pandemic after a judge struck them down.

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Attorney General Cameron Threatens To Sue Beshear

Fri, 01 May 2020 17:09:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Attorney General Daniel Cameron threatened to sue Gov. Andy Beshear for not allowing in-person church services during the coronavirus pandemic. The state got its first glimpse at how much tax revenue has dropped off amid business closures. And Kentucky’s senior Senator Mitch McConnell has new conditions for helping states out with their budget problems.

Donate to support this and future seasons of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

McConnell Calls For Letting States Declare Bankruptcy

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 15:55:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Mitch McConnell said that states shouldn’t expect help shoring up their budgets during the coronavirus pandemic and that they should be allowed to file for bankruptcy. And Gov. Andy Beshear issued an executive order allowing every Kentuckian to vote by mail during this year’s primary elections.

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Legislature Wraps Up With Veto Overrides

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 17:03:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the legislature wrapped up its 2020 session with a flurry of veto overrides, abortion bills and constitutional amendments. Gov. Andy Beshear said he’s working with a group of neighboring states to coordinate when and how to ease coronavirus restrictions. And protestors gathered at the capitol to protest business closures. Erica Peterson talked to capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Legislature Returns Next Week

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 20:19:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear urged churches to not hold Easter services during the coronavirus pandemic. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said that banning drive-in church services violates first amendment rights. And the legislature returns next week to consider overriding Gov. Beshear’s vetoes.

Coronavirus Looms Over Budget

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 19:52:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the legislature finally passed a budget, but they have little idea of how much money the state will make during the coronavirus epidemic. A legislative staffer has contracted the disease. And Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell continued his quest to fill judicial vacancies with conservative judges.

The Coronavirus Relief Bill

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 20:36:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the state legislature still met during the coronavirus pandemic. They passed an emergency bill to help provide some relief to workers and businesses dealing with the virus, and they advanced a slew of other measures. And Kentucky’s 4th district Congressman Thomas Massie received America's ire for threatening to block a federal coronavirus bill.

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Legislature Meets Through Coronavirus

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 20:08:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the legislature met amid the growing coronavirus pandemic. Lawmakers rushed to pass a budget and other bills before eventually adjourning for a week. And all of it took place during a lock down of the capitol, with only legislators, essential staff and reporters allowed inside.

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Coronavirus Response

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 17:55:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear headed up the state’s response to the coronavirus outbreak, recommending that schools, churches and employers cease in-person activities. And Leaders of the legislature say they’re evaluating how to proceed with this year’s budget writing session.Kentucky Politics Distilled

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Democratic Senate Candidates Square Off

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 16:28:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the House of Representatives passed a budget that cuts some of Gov. Andy Beshear’s proposals. Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate participated in a forum in Newport. And the legislature is considering more anti-abortion measures.

Donate to support this and future episodes of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Special Elections And Homophobia

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 17:38:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, a Republican won a historically Democratic seat in the state House of Representatives during a special election. And the Kentucky Democratic Party called for a Republican state senator to resign after he made homophobic remarks during a campaign event.

Donate to support this and future episodes of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Medical Marijuana Bill Advances

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 18:28:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, a medical marijuana bill passed out of a legislative committee, raising hopes for advocates that this will be the year the measure passes. Executives for the controversial Braidy Industries aluminum mill testified in the state capitol after the removal of its CEO. And advocates rallied to try and build support of gun safety measures.

Kentucky Legislature Votes To Arm School Officers

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 16:03:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the legislature passed a bill requiring every school in the state to have an armed law enforcement officer. Gov. Andy Beshear tried to rally support for a measure to legalize sports betting in Kentucky, but initial momentum behind the bill is fading.

Beshear's Budget Address

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 17:15:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear unveiled what he wants the state budget to look like for the next two years. But Republican leaders of the legislature have their own ideas of how to put together the spending plan, and they’ll be in charge of the process. Plus, a bill banning so-called sanctuary immigration policies passed the first step of the legislative process.

Voter ID Bill Changes

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 10:59:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, a voter ID bill passed a major hurdle on its way through the legislature. Anti-abortion advocates are throwing their support behind new abortion restrictions. And Republican education leaders are pushing for every school in the state to have an armed guard.

Governor Beshear's First Address

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 16:30:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Andy Beshear gave his first state of the commonwealth address, calling on the legislature to reach across party lines. The state legislature finished its first full week, advancing a bill to move gubernatorial elections to even-numbered years. And the sponsor of an anti-sanctuary cities bill has made changes following criticism.

Check Out Our New Investigative Podcast, Dig

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 11:06:00 -0500

In the first season of Dig, a new podcast from the Kentucky Center for Investigative Reporting, we bring you the results of a yearlong look at how rape cases are investigated in Louisville. What we’ve learned: here, the police defer to prosecutors on rape cases -- and prosecutors reject the vast majority of cases presented to them. Due to this unusual relationship, most people accused of rape here will never face consequences. Most won’t be arrested or convicted. And the case will be closed anyway. Listen here: https://kycir.org/2019/11/25/listen-season-1-dig/

Governor Bevin's Last Week

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 14:50:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, outgoing Governor Matt Bevin claimed he lost his reelection because Democrats “harvested votes in urban areas.” Governor-elect Andy Beshear named some of his cabinet secretaries. And education commissioner Wayne Lewis defended himself, as his job might be in jeopardy in the new administration.

Beshear Begins Transition

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 18:03:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin said he’s going to return to the private sector after losing his race for reelection. Gov.-elect Andy Beshear named the first appointees of his administration. And incoming Secretary of State Michael Adams says he wants to clean Kentucky’s voter rolls and get a voter ID bill passed before next year’s elections.

Bevin Concedes Election

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 17:53:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin conceded his race for reelection, paving the way for Gov.-elect Andy Beshear to take office next month. Bevin had requested a recanvass of the results after losing by about 5,000 votes, but the process only produced one new vote. Meanwhile, Andy Beshear has begun assembling his administration.

Beshear Wins, Bevin Won't Concede

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 16:38:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Attorney General Andy Beshear beat Gov. Matt Bevin at the ballot box, but Bevin still hasn’t conceded the election. Bevin has asked for a second look of the results and has hinted at an official election contest. But even Republicans have started to distance themselves from the governor. We talk about what could happen next.

It's Almost Election Day

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 17:05:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, candidates for governor participated in two debates. Now Gov. Matt Bevin and Attorney General Andy Beshear are crisscrossing the state making their final pitches ahead of Election Day on Tuesday. And the Kentucky Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit against a Lexington T-shirt maker that refused to make shirts for a gay pride festival. We talk through it all this week on Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Trump To Stump For Bevin

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 14:29:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin said he’ll re-open a prison to help deal with the state’s booming prison population. President Trump announced he’ll visit Lexington the night before Election Day. And Attorney General Andy Beshear says he’ll restore voting rights to some people with felony convictions if he’s elected. We talk about it all, this week on Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Poll Shows Bevin And Beshear Tied In Governor's Race

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 10:43:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, candidates for governor and attorney general both participated in televised debates. And a new poll shows Gov. Matt Bevin and Attorney General Andy Beshear tied ahead of next month’s election. Jonese Franklin and Ryland Barton talk about it in week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Less Than A Month Until Election Day

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 17:08:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a judge says that Republican attorney general candidate Daniel Cameron is eligible to run, ruling against a claim that he doesn’t have enough experience. Teachers in several rural districts received emails to this week on their official accounts supporting Gov. Matt Bevin’s reelection. And Bevin’s attempt to reshape Kentucky’s Medicaid system is back in court. It's all in this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Judge Disqualified Over Facebook 'Like'

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 17:56:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the Chief Justice John Minton appointed a new judge to preside over the teacher “sickout” lawsuit after a Facebook like. There was a shakeup on Gov. Matt Bevin’s campaign after a sparsely attended rally in Pikeville. And Kentucky’s congressmen responded to the impeachment inquiry of President Trump. Jonese Franklin talks to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Bevin Defends State Plane Use

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 17:32:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin released a list of all the times he’d used the state plane for official business, but he didn’t say when he used it for personal reasons. A Louisville man has filed a lawsuit to try and have Republican Attorney General Candidate Daniel Cameron removed from the ballot. And the state board of elections has started moving some people onto an “inactive voter” list. Ryland Barton joins Jonese Franklin to talk about it on this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Jerry Lundergan Found Guilty

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 16:06:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, former Kentucky Democratic Party Chair Jerry Lundergan was found guilty of illegally funding campaign work for his daughter, Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes. The Courier Journal discovered that Gov. Matt Bevin has been a state-owned plane to fly to events around the country. And Bevin continues to double down on his anti-abortion platform. Erica Peterson talked to Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.Click here to support the work we do. +

Judge Denies Bevin's Request To Step Down

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 15:19:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a judge refuses to step down from the lawsuit over the Bevin administration’s investigation into protesting teachers. Two coal miners have demanded that Senate candidate Amy McGrath stop using their images in a campaign video. And the eastern Kentucky segments of the KentuckyWired broadband project are now complete. Jean West from member station WFPL talks with Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled. Click here to support the work we do. +

Trump Jr. Headlines Sparse Bevin Rally

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 17:01:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Donald Trump Jr. visited Pikeville to headline a rally for Gov. Matt Bevin. The governor is trying to get a judge removed from the lawsuit against his investigation into protesting teachers. And Kentucky’s worst-funded pension fund is showing some signs that it’s getting healthier. Jean West talked to capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Trump Stumps For Bevin

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 15:30:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, President Trump came to Louisville to lend a hand to Gov. Bevin’s reelection campaign. Meanwhile Bevin made more controversial comments about teacher protests and Lt. Governor Jenean Hampton is suing him over the firing of her staffers.

Lt. Gov. Hampton Sues Gov. Bevin

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 15:33:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Lieutenant Gov. Jean Hampton filed a lawsuit against Gov. Matt Bevin for firing two of her staffers. The University of Louisville announced a deal to try and buy the struggling Jewish Hospital system with a $50 million loan from the state. And sports radio host Matt Jones announced he’s writing a book about Mitch McConnell, but still won’t say if he’s running against him. Kentucky Politics Distilled wouldn't be possible without you. Click here to support the work we do.

Pension Bill Passes Special Session

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 15:30:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin signed the so-called pension “relief” bill into law after a short special legislative session. Attorney General Andy Beshear threatened to sue over the session, saying that Bevin had blocked lawmakers from considering other proposals. And Amy McGrath addressed the bumpy launch to her U.S. Senate campaign. WFPL's Jean West talked to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled. Click here to support the work we do. +

Special Session Begins

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 17:43:58 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin’s special legislative session on pensions is finally taking place and Democrats think he’s tied the legislature’s hands. Bevin and Democratic rival Andy Beshear clashed during a debate at the Kentucky Farm Bureau. And Kentucky lawmakers responded to President Trump’s inflammatory tweets. WFPL's Jean West talked to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled. Click here to support the work we do.

Amy McGrath's Bumpy Takeoff

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 16:20:09 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, retired Marine fighter pilot Amy McGrath announced she will challenge Majority Leader Mitch McConnell in next year’s race for U.S. Senate. But the launch had a rocky start. And Gov. Matt Bevin might be a little closer to calling a special legislative session on pensions this summer. Jean West talked to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled. Kentucky Politics Distilled wouldn't be possible without you. Click here to support the work we do.

Beshear Tries To Unite Democrats

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 15:35:40 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Democratic candidate for governor Andy Beshear continued his “unity tour,” campaigning with his former primary election rival Adam Edelen. Gov. Matt Bevin’s office says a special legislative session on pensions won’t take place until later this summer. And nearly 200 new laws went into effect this week. Jean West talked to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled. Kentucky Politics Distilled wouldn't be possible without you. Click here to support the work we do: wfpl.org/supportkpd _

Lt. Gov. Hampton Speaks Out

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 15:53:45 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Lieutenant Gov. Jenean Hampton finally spoke out about the feud between her office and Gov. Matt Bevin’s administration. Meanwhile, Bevin says he has the votes to call a special legislative session on pensions, but too many lawmakers are on vacation. Jean West from member station WFPL talked to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled wouldn't be possible without you. Click here to support the work we do: wfpl.org/supportkpd

Marsy's Law Struck Down

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 16:11:49 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the state Supreme Court issued two major decisions: one that blocked Marsy’s Law, the so-called “victims bill of rights,” and a ruling in favor of Gov. Matt Bevin’s overhaul of several education boards.

Plus, Lieutenant Gov. Jenean Hampton’s battle against so-called “dark forces” continued.

Jean West from member station WFPL talked to capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled wouldn't be possible without you. Click here to support the work we do: wfpl.org/supportkpd

Bevin Pension Bill Still Lacks Support

Fri, 31 May 2019 16:39:43 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin is struggling to cobble together enough votes for his pension bill, and he still promises to call a special legislative session on the issue.

And outgoing Lieutenant Governor Jenean Hampton asked for prayers as she battles “dark forces” following the firing of one of her staffers.

Jean West and Ryland Barton talk about it on this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Bevin And Beshear Win Primaries

Fri, 24 May 2019 15:23:09 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a very interesting primary election took place. We learned that Gov. Matt Bevin will be facing off against Attorney General Andy Beshear in this year’s race for governor.

But the results of the election show that both candidates have some work to do to unite their parties behind them.

Jean West talked to Ryland Barton on this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Last Push Before the Primary

Fri, 17 May 2019 16:41:35 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, candidates for governor and other statewide offices made their final pitches ahead of the primary election.

Democrats running for governor participated in three televised debates, Republicans running for attorney general continued to sling mud at each other, and one of Gov. Matt Bevin’s primary challengers still thinks he’ll win.

Jean West and Ryland Barton talk about it on this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Still No Special Session

Fri, 10 May 2019 17:20:03 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin is still trying to drum up support for his new pension bill after he vetoed an earlier version of it. Meanwhile, it’s a little over a week away until Kentucky’s primary election for governor and other statewide offices.

The Governor's New Pension Bill

Fri, 03 May 2019 15:20:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, He also unveiled his first reelection ad, which is scheduled to air during the Kentucky Derby. And Democrats running for governor have officially taken their gloves off in this year's primary battle.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Bevin Blames Teacher Protests For Shooting

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 15:57:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin stepped into controversy again by claiming teacher protests caused a child to be shot in Louisville. And Democratic candidates for governor took part in their first televised debate of the campaign season, differing on the abortion issue.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Primaries A Month Away

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 16:01:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Democratic candidates for governor finally appeared on stage for the first time ahead of next month’s primary election. And a battle is waging over the votes of teachers, who held massive protests in Frankfort in recent years.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Bevin Vetoes The Pension Bill

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 16:16:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin vetoed the pension bill that passed on the last day of the legislative session. He says he’ll call another session this summer for lawmakers to pass a new version of it. But Bevin has angered his typical allies in the Republican-led legislature.

Environmental Activists Heckle McConnell; Primary Season Begins

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 14:27:00 -0400

Mitch McConnell was hounded by hecklers in public once again, an appeals court upheld a state abortion law that had previously been struck down, and battles over Kentucky primary elections started to heat up.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Last-Minute Pension Bill

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 15:22:00 -0400

The Kentucky legislative session ended this week with lawmakers passing last-minute bills, including major financial legislation dealing with pensions and taxes. The Republican-led legislature also overrode the two bills that Gov. Matt Bevin had vetoed earlier this week.

Bevin still has the opportunity strike down any of the legislation that passed on the last day, but lawmakers will not be able to override any more of his vetoes.

The legislature is now finished passing bills for the year, unless the governor calls lawmakers back to Frankfort for a special session, which he says he won’t do. Next year, the legislature will return to pass a new two-year state budget and tax plan.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Anti-Abortion Bills Signed By Bevin, Blocked By Judge

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 17:06:00 -0400

State lawmakers were off this week, but Gov. Matt Bevin has begun the process of signing bills that passed out of the state legislature. Bevin made news by signing two anti-abortion bills that were immediately blocked by a federal judge. And he made controversial comments about vaccinating children. Jean West from member station WFPL talked to Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: A Flurry Of Last-Minute Activity In the General Assembly

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 16:39:00 -0400

This week we look at the bills that passed this session -- many of them late Thursday night. The bills include a requirement that public schools prominently display "In God We Trust," a decrease in the amount you can be compensated for the power your solar panels add to the energy grid, and four abortion-related bills. The bills will now head to the governor's office.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Teacher Protests, Time Running Out

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 14:42:00 -0500

This week in state politics, teachers descended on Frankfort again to protest a handful of education and pension-related bills. And for the first time in state history, a medical marijuana bill got a vote. Time is running out on this year’s legislative session. WFPL's Jean West talked to Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Teacher Protests And Concealed Carry

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 12:08:00 -0500

This week in the Kentucky legislature, teachers descended on Frankfort again to protest a bill dealing with their pension system and lawmakers advanced bills to allow people to carry concealed weapons without a permit.

WFPL's Jonese Franklin talked to Capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: A New Pension Bill Emerges

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 16:36:00 -0500

Kentucky legislators were in full swing in Frankfort this week. There was more discussion about abortion restrictions, as well as a new pension bill. Jean West talks to capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Abortion, Guns and Solar Panels

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 16:33:00 -0500

Lawmakers advanced a flurry of conservative bills in the Kentucky legislature this week, including two major anti-abortion initiatives, a bill that would scale back the state’s solar industry and a measure that would no longer require people who concealed carry weapons to get a permit.

Jean West from member station WFPL talks to capitol reporter Ryland Barton for this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: State Of The Commonwealth

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 11:35:00 -0500

It was a busy week in Frankfort this week with Gov. Matt Bevin’s State of the Commonwealth address, new developments on an election contest for a statehouse seat and protesters from the Poor People's Campaign finally getting a meeting with the governor. In the latest edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled, Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton speaks with WFPL host Jean West.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Election Filing Deadline; More Kim Davis

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 11:45:00 -0500

This week was the filing deadline for candidates running for governor, attorney general and other statewide offices this year. And a lawsuit involving former Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis continues to roll through the courts system.

Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton spoke with WFPL's Jean West for this week's episode.

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Kentucky Politics Distilled: Gov. Bevin Officially Files For Re-Election

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 17:06:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin confirmed that he'll run for re-election, but with a new running mate. Jenean Hampton is out, Ralph Alvarado is in. Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton has this week's Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: State Lawmakers Respond To Hoover Scandal

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 16:00:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, some state leaders and political parties are responding to more details about sexual assault accusations leveled against Rep. Jeff Hoover. The accusations were revealed in a report published by the Kentucky Center for Investigative Reporting and Kentucky Public Radio. Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton has this week's Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Lawmakers Start The 2019 Session With Medical Marijuana, Abortion Legislation

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 16:21:00 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the Kentucky General Assembly gavelled back in...and now, lawmakers are on a break until the beginning of February. But a lot happened in that week. There's still a House seat that's still in contention, lawmakers discussed legalizing medical marijuana and took steps to restrict abortion further in Kentucky. Oh--and pension reform is still on everyone's mind. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Rand Paul Defends Trump’s Putin Summit

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 12:10:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Rand Paul was one of the few politicians to defend President Donald Trump’s summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Gov. Matt Bevin’s administration restored vision and dental benefits to almost 400,000 people on Medicaid after taking them away earlier this month. And Kentucky’s bourbon industry ramped up its warnings about how a trade war would impact the state’s signature industry. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Andy Beshear Announces Run For Governor

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 13:33:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Attorney General Andy Beshear announced he’s running for governor, the state auditor released a report finding a “pervasive lack of accountability” in Kentucky’s courts administration, and a bunch of new laws go into effect this weekend.Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Gov. Matt Bevin Blames School Shootings On Phones And Video Games

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 17:56:00 -0400

This week in state politics, federal education officials came to Kentucky to talk about ways to make schools safer and Gov. Matt Bevin said it all comes down to kids’ cell phone use. One of the Republican lawmakers who helped make changes to the state pension system says they’ll pass the bill again if it’s struck down by the courts. And the state’s new education commissioner talked about the potential costs of taking over Louisville’s school system. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Pension Bill Struck Down

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 11:50:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, a judge struck down Kentucky’s new pension law, saying legislators broke the law by rushing the bill to passage. Kentucky’s health secretary says the state will have to cut benefits if a federal court blocks Gov. Matt Bevin’s changes to the Medicaid system. And Democrats no longer make up a majority of registered voters in the state. Capitol Reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Poor People's Campaign Goes To Frankfort

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 11:43:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Kentucky State Troopers shut protesters out of the state Capitol, allowing only two people to enter the building at a time. Attorney General Andy Beshear is suing Walgreens, saying the company helped fuel the opioid epidemic in the state. And a high-powered lobbyist was in federal court as prosecutors try to prove he bribed a former state official to help a client get state contracts. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Pension Battle Goes To Court

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 13:19:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, the lawsuit over the new pension law was argued in court. Kentucky’s new commissioner of education laid out his priorities, which include helping charter schools open up and taking over Louisville’s public school system. And Mitch McConnell continued to express concern about President Trump’s tariffs leading to a full-blown trade war. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Medicaid Changes Coming; Braidy Breaks Ground

Fri, 01 Jun 2018 13:15:00 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, Gov. Matt Bevin said he’s partnering with a former Democratic congressman to help people navigate the state’s new Medicaid rules. We found out that lobbyists set a new spending record at the state legislature as lawmakers made changes to the tax code. Plus, a state-funded aluminum mill broke ground in northeastern Kentucky and Gov. Bevin asked for a judge to recuse himself from the lawsuit over the new pension bill.

Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Republicans' First Budget

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 18:48:17 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, lawmakers retreated behind closed doors to begin hammering out a compromise on the state budget for the next two years. A bill that would shield personal cell phones and computers from records requests drew fire from open government advocates. And a common type of abortion would be banned under a bill that is nearing final passage out of the legislature. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Protests And Pensions

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 17:21:20 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics, students marched on the state Capitol to call for lawmakers to come up with solutions to school shootings; during a radio interview, Gov. Matt Bevin lashed out at teachers for protesting a plan that would take some of their retirement benefits away; and the pension bill that teachers have been protesting, well, it’s on life support. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Town Halls, 'War On Louisville' And Bible Literacy

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 23:55:06 -0500

This week, Sen. Mitch McConnell and Congressman Andy Barr came back home to jeering crowds of protesters at town hall-type meetings. Meanwhile the General Assembly advanced controversial bills including a bill giving more power to Louisville’s metro council and another that would create a social studies course about the bible.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: 'Blue Lives Matter' And Planned Parenthood Gets Dinged

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 17:18:41 -0500

Controversial proposals like the “blue lives matter” bill and a scheme to defund Planned Parenthood advanced in the General Assembly this week. Legislation stiffening drug penalties and changing public education also made their way through the Republican-led legislature. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: State Of The Commonwealth

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 16:58:50 -0500

Lawmakers returned to Frankfort this week after a month-long break in the legislative session. Governor Bevin announced that the state might have to raise taxes to fix the state’s ailing pension system. Plus, a sweeping criminal justice reform proposal was proposed and a bill making it a hate crime to attack police officers is making its way through the legislative process. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Budget Compromise

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 17:33:35 -0400

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Budget Compromise by KY Politics Distilled

Benefind Problems Explained

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 16:07:41 -0400

A little over a month ago Gov. Matt Bevin unveiled Benefind, a one-stop shop for entitlement benefits like food stamps, cash assistance and Medicaid. The rollout of the program has had huge problems, with thousands of people losing services and thousands more getting false notices that they had lost services. There’s been a lot of confusion over what caused the problems and who’s to blame. In this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled, capitol reporter Ryland Barton tells us what happened.

Budget Talks Run Aground

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 17:08:35 -0400

This week in the Kentucky General Assembly, budget negotiations ground to a halt. But Gov. Matt Bevin still cut higher education budgets for the current fiscal year. In the latest edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled, capitol reporter Ryland Barton recaps what happened and what could be next.

Final Budget Negotiations Begin

Sat, 26 Mar 2016 09:40:11 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics lawmakers started the final negotiations of the state budget. At stake is how to fix the state’s ailing pension systems, whether to start funding state universities based on “performance metrics” and how much money to leave aside for the future. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has the latest edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Kentucky Politics Distilled: House Passes A Budget

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 15:20:24 -0400

This week in Kentucky politics the state House of Representatives finally presented its version of the state budget, restoring some spending cuts proposed by Gov. Matt Bevin. The Kentucky Senate is considering a bill that would some people clear felonies from their records. And the Senate also passed a bill that would allow business owners to deny services based on their religious beliefs. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Democrats Foil House 'Flip'

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 14:42:17 -0500

This week in Kentucky Politics, Democrats held on to their majority in the state House after Republicans fell short of expectations in four special elections. Lawmakers are divided between two competing bills intended to curb dogfighting in the state. And once again, the state Senate passed a bill to tighten regulations on abortion providers in the state.

Trump Comes To Town

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 15:34:24 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, the Trump Show came to town ahead of the Kentucky Republican caucus. A new bill would add restrictions to abortion facilities and details of Gov. Bevin’s budget are still slowly coming. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has the latest edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled

Kentucky Politics Distilled: Still Looking For Budget Details

Fri, 26 Feb 2016 15:04:42 -0500

This week at the Kentucky legislature, we heard a lot about the budget, but still few details about how proposed cuts will be implemented. Also, a religious freedom bill threatens to override local anti-discrimination laws. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Bevin Replaces Kynect, Marriage License 'Fix' Advances

Fri, 19 Feb 2016 16:30:16 -0500

This week in Kentucky Politics, Gov. Matt Bevin’s administration is suing Planned Parenthood for allegedly conducting abortions illegally at its new Louisville clinic. A bill to create different marriage licenses for heterosexual and homosexual couples advanced in the legislature. And the Bevin Administration released new details of how the Kynect health insurance exchange will be replaced.

Clash of the Governors, Return of the LOST

Fri, 12 Feb 2016 15:08:11 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, former Governor Beshear returned to confront current Governor Matt Bevin, lawmakers took another crack at the Local Option Sales Tax and once again, anti-abortion legislation maneuvered its way through the state legislature. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has all that and more in this week’s installment of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Rand Runs Aground

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 17:10:32 -0500

This week in Kentucky politics, Rand Paul dropped out of the presidential race to focus his Senate re-election bid, the state lost two visionary politicians and, once again, the legislature advanced anti-abortion policies. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this week’s installment of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Bevin's First Budget, Anti-Abortion Bills

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 17:08:38 -0500

This week Governor Matt Bevin delivered his first budget address. His proposal for how to fund state operations included a mix of across-the-board cuts and some surprises. Meanwhile, week four of the Kentucky General Assembly brought more big moves on anti-abortion legislation. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this update of the goings on in Frankfort in this week’s edition of Kentucky Politics Distilled.

Conservative House Democrats, Budget Anxiety And More

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 17:04:57 -0500

Despite the holiday off, the Kentucky state Capitol was bustling this week ahead of worries about the impending snowstorm. Among the happenings, lawmakers moved forward on anti-abortion legislation, and the state House’s tenuous political balance continued to provide intrigue.

Big Bills Start Moving, Bevin Fulfills Pledges

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 16:54:16 -0500

Lawmakers began considering controversial bills in legislative committees during Week 2 of the Kentucky General Assembly. And Gov. Bevin made some big moves on health care. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this break down of the goings on in Frankfort, in a new weekly segment we’re calling Kentucky Politics Distilled

First Week Of The 2016 Kentucky General Assembly

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 16:50:22 -0500

Week one of the Kentucky General Assembly is in the books and Kentucky lawmakers began to reveal what their priorities for the legislative session. Capitol reporter Ryland Barton has this breakdown of the goings on in Frankfort, in a new weekly segment we’re calling Kentucky Politics Distilled.