Kentucky Governor’s Race: Matt Bevin Faces Tougher-than-Expected Challenge

The Republican party is bracing itself for a possible upset in Kentucky, as incumbent GOP governor Matt Bevin faces a stronger-than-expected challenge from Democratic attorney general Andy Beshear.

Of the three gubernatorial races set to be decided next month, only the contest in the Bluegrass State features an incumbent Republican — Bevin, who won the office in 2015 by promising to govern as a conservative reformer, and cemented his reputation as a rising GOP star in the process. But despite largely keeping those promises, Bevin now finds himself in a dogfight with Beshear.

About the Author

Alexandra DeSanctis

Alexandra DeSanctis is a contributing writer at National Review.

The Republican party is bracing itself for a possible upset in Kentucky, as incumbent GOP governor Matt Bevin faces a stronger-than-expected challenge from Democratic attorney general Andy Beshear.

Of the three gubernatorial races set to be decided next month, only the contest in the Bluegrass State features an incumbent Republican — Bevin, who won the office in 2015 by promising to govern as a conservative reformer, and cemented his reputation as a rising GOP star in the process. But despite largely keeping those promises, Bevin now finds himself in a dogfight with Beshear.