Kentucky Governor Remains Silent on McConnell’s Potential Senate Vacancy
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, has once again refused to address the possibility of a Senate vacancy following another health scare for Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell. Despite McConnell’s recent incidents where he froze for several seconds during press conferences, Beshear has consistently avoided discussing what he would do if such a vacancy were to occur.
When questioned about McConnell’s potential departure, Beshear replied, There is no Senate vacancy. Sen. McConnell has stated that he will serve out his term, and I believe him. Therefore, I am not going to speculate about something that has not happened and is unlikely to happen.
This avoidance strategy from Beshear started in late July when McConnell first experienced a freeze during a press conference, which lasted for 28 seconds and required assistance from his colleagues. The most recent incident occurred in Covington, where McConnell once again froze for approximately 30 seconds before being aided by his aides.
Kentucky recently revised its process for filling U.S. Senate vacancies with the passing of Senate Bill 228 in 2021, a law advocated for by McConnell. This law shifted the power of appointment from the governor to the party of the departing senator. Previously, the governor had the freedom to choose a replacement without any restrictions. Now, the governor can only select from a list of three names recommended by the executive committee of the senator’s state party.
Despite Beshear vetoing SB 228, the GOP-dominated legislature overrode the veto. The governor argued that the bill violated both the state and federal constitution, leading to speculation that he may challenge or defy it if faced with a vacancy.
Although McConnell and his staff have reassured that he has no intention of stepping down, questions persist for both the governor and the senator in light of McConnell’s health incidents. This uncertainty is especially relevant as Beshear faces a competitive reelection race against Republican Attorney General Daniel Cameron, a former protégé of McConnell.
Should Cameron win the November election and assume office in early December, he would likely adhere to the new appointment procedures if a vacancy were to arise.
When asked if voters deserve to know his plans regarding a hypothetical vacancy, Beshear declined to answer directly, stating, I respect Senator McConnell and his health enough not to sensationalize it. Additionally, there is currently no vacancy, and McConnell has expressed his commitment to serving out his term.
While McConnell’s term extends until 2026, he has yet to announce whether he plans to run for reelection.
In summary, Governor Beshear continues to evade questions regarding a potential Senate vacancy in Kentucky as McConnell’s health incidents raise concerns. With the state’s revamped appointment process, the governor’s decision would be limited to choosing from a list provided by the executive committee of the departing senator’s party. Despite speculation, McConnell and his office maintain that he intends to complete his term as Senate leader. However, the political landscape remains uncertain, especially considering Beshear’s upcoming reelection battle.
