Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey: Kentucky roundup


Kentucky is holding elections, including for governor, on May 16, 2023. A number of candidates running in these elections completed Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection survey. These survey responses allow voters to hear directly from candidates about what motivates them to run for office.

Below is a selection of responses from the candidates who filled out the survey as of Feb. 15, 2023. To read each candidate’s full responses, click their name at the bottom of the article.

David Cooper (R) is running for governor of Kentucky and the primary election is on May 16. Here’s how Cooper responded to the question: “What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?”

“The world is not black and white and there needs to be a governor who can expertly navigate the grey areas to bring peace and unity back to Kentucky. Abortion is a key issue that has the state and the nation divided. I believe there should be exceptions to the law, contraceptive NOT being one of them. Another policy I am passionate about is bringing more income into the state and preventing the pension fund from ever being dipped into again. Lastly, our children are the future and I plan to promote trade schools, creating a mandatory life skills class for high schoolers, and an all around environment free from bullying, sexual harassment, and mental [in]stability.”

Click here to read the rest of Cooper’s answers. 

Robbie Smith (R) is running for governor of Kentucky and the primary election is on May 16. Here’s how Smith responded to the question: “What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?”

“We have to address our Commonwealth’s addiction problem in a meaningful way. The success of Kentucky’s next generation depends on receiving a high quality education, but many students are left without that opportunity. The financial success of our [citizens] is being neglected because of bureaucratic, stifling government interference.”

Click here to read the rest of Smith’s answers. 

If you’re a Kentucky candidate or incumbent, click here to take the survey. The survey contains over 30 questions, and you can choose the ones you feel will best represent your views to voters. If you complete the survey, a box with your answers will display on your Ballotpedia profile. Your responses will also populate the information that appears in our mobile app, My Vote Ballotpedia.

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