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Kentucky Governor's Appointment Claim Rejected, Special Election Set for 2026

8/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Andy Beshear said August 3 has no legal impact on filling the Kentucky Senate vacancy.
Secretary of State Michael Adams said state law requires a special election with a filing deadline of September 8, 2026.
Beshear argued Constitution Section 152 could let him appoint a temporary senator, a claim Adams rejected.
Senator Mitch McConnell has been absent since a June 14, 2026 hospitalization and on July 27 said he will miss the Fancy Farm picnic.

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Story summary

Governor Andy Beshear said August 3 has no legal impact on filling the Kentucky Senate vacancy.
Secretary of State Michael Adams said state law requires a special election with a filing deadline of September 8, 2026.
Beshear argued Constitution Section 152 could let him appoint a temporary senator, a claim Adams rejected.
Senator Mitch McConnell has been absent since a June 14, 2026 hospitalization and on July 27 said he will miss the Fancy Farm picnic.