LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Democrats’ three major candidates for governor faced off Wednesday night in a televised debate, broadcast on LEX 18.
With “Hey Kentucky” host Matt Jones as moderator, the candidates shared their stances on issues facing the commonwealth.
You can watch the entire debate here.
Regarding Kentucky’s ailing pension system, House Minority Leader Rocky Adkins touted reforms he helped to pass in 2014, while Attorney General Andy Beshear suggested exploring sports betting to boost revenues.
Former Auditor Adam Edelen said the state needs to reform and better fund the system.
All three had a dim view of the coal industry’s future but said it can coexist with other types of energy.
On health care, each offered support for the Affordable Care Act but agreed it needed reforms.
All three said they favor legalizing medical marijuana while stopping short of supporting recreational use of the drug.
Gov. Matt Bevin weighed in on the debate before it even started.
“Tonight’s debate for governor, on the Democrat side here in Kentucky, might as well be held in New York or California,” the Republican leader said in a video statement. “The ideas that you hear are tired, they’re backward, they’re backward looking.”
The primary election will be held May 21.
