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Kentucky governor faces voters after tumultuous term

Posted at 9:15 AM, May 20, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-20 09:15:09-04

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Republican Gov. Matt Bevin has lashed out at protesting teachers and ridiculed judges during a tumultuous term steering Kentucky on a conservative course.

Now the pugnacious governor faces the first test of his reelection campaign in a race that could offer clues about the electorate's mood heading into a presidential election year.

Voters get to speak Tuesday in a state the GOP has recently dominated, but where Democrats see an opportunity to win back the governorship.

RELATED: Edelen attack spurs Beshear response in Democratic campaign

Three prominent Democrats, including the son of Bevin's predecessor, are competing for the chance to challenge Bevin. The leading Democrats are Attorney General Andy Beshear, ex-state auditor Adam Edelen and longtime state Rep. Rocky Adkins.

Beshear's father served two terms as governor.

Bevin has three Republican primary challengers, including state Rep. Robert Goforth.

The Kentucky primary is Tuesday, May 21. The polls are open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Click here to review your registration and find a polling location.