Rocky Adkins, a former Democratic leader in the Kentucky House and senior advisor to Gov. Andy Beshear, on Tuesday announced he is running to serve as Kentucky’s next governor.
“The governor of Kentucky is the last line of defense for the people of this Commonwealth,” Adkins said. “That protection is only as strong as the person behind the desk. Right now, Kentucky needs a governor with the experience, backbone and record to take on these fights and win.”
Adkins enters the race with nearly four decades of public service and a record of standing up for Kentucky’s future. His campaign will focus on building a commonwealth that works for everyone by lowering costs, strengthening public schools and health care, protecting workers and organized labor, defending our fundamental freedoms and creating opportunity in every community.
“From the mountains of eastern Kentucky to the West End of Louisville, from the farms of the Purchase to the streets of Lexington, from Covington to the Tennessee line and every community in between, you are not alone,” Adkins said. “As governor, I will be right there in the trenches with you.”
As Democratic leader in the Kentucky House, Adkins built relationships across the aisle while standing firm against policies that threatened teachers, workers, public employees, retirement security, health care and the rights of Kentuckians. Many of those wins came by stopping harmful legislation before it could reach the House floor.
Adkins brought that same approach to the executive branch as senior advisor to Gov. Andy Beshear. In that role, he worked directly with local officials and community leaders to respond to devastating floods and tornadoes, strengthen infrastructure, create jobs and solve problems in communities across the state.
“Life is too hard for too many Kentuckians, and it does not have to be that way,” Adkins said. “People are working hard and doing their part. They deserve a government that does its part, too. For the past six years, we have worked to build a government that serves the people. I am running to make sure that work continues.”
The primary election for governor will be held May 18, followed by the general election on Nov. 2, 2027. To learn more about Adkins, his career in public service and his plans for Kentucky, visit RockyForKY.com.
Rocky Adkins