Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers said he will not launch a 2027 bid for governor.
In a Monday morning statement, the Manchester Republican said he was “deeply grateful for the encouragement and confidence so many Kentuckians have shown by asking me to consider running for governor in 2027.”
“After thoughtful discussions with my family, friends and trusted advisors, I have decided that my calling remains where it has always been, as the senator from Clay County, proudly representing the people of Kentucky’s 25th Senate District,” Stivers said.
Earlier this year, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear criticized an omnibus election law from the Republican-controlled General Assembly for a number of reasons, including that it could bolster sitting lawmakers — particularly Stivers — to run for statewide office by allowing them to move their legislative campaign funds to a statewide election. Stivers often has a well-funded campaign account — even when not facing another opponent for reelection.
At the time, Stivers did not rule out a gubernatorial bid when asked about the speculation by the Kentucky Lantern. Stivers added that he did not ask for that provision in the new law.
“For me, public service has never been about seeking another title. It has been about advancing sound public policy that improves lives, strengthens our economy and leaves Kentucky better for it,” Stivers said Monday. “That has been my mission throughout my legislative time, and it remains both my passion and my privilege.”
Stivers added that he hopes the Republican caucus will elect him to another term as Senate president “so we can continue building on the conservative policies that have transformed Kentucky into one of the nation’s strongest fiscal and economic success stories.”
Stivers has been in the Senate since 1997 and its leader since 2013. Policies he wants to continue including lowering taxes, balancing the state budget and more.
“I look forward to working with Kentucky’s next governor — one who views the General Assembly as an equal branch of government and a true governing partner,” Stivers said. “Kentucky deserves leadership that chooses collaboration over confrontation and solutions over political theater. Our residents are best served when leaders focus on results instead of creating conflict.”
Beshear is term-limited from seeking another term. No high-profile Republicans have filed to run for governor so far, but rumored GOP candidates include U.S. Rep. James Comer and Secretary of State Michael Adams.
Two Beshear allies are running on the Democratic side — Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman and Rocky Adkins, a former Democratic leader in the Kentucky House and Beshear’s senior adviser.
