Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (D) addressed members of the Kentucky Distillers' Association in Louisville, where he criticized the trade policies of President Donald Trump. During the event, Beshear called for the administration to roll back tariffs, stating that trade disputes with Canada have contributed to an 85% decline in Kentucky bourbon sales in that country.
The two-term governor, who currently chairs the Democratic Governors' Association, is releasing a memoir titled "Go and Do Likewise: How We Heal a Broken Country." In the book and in recent public appearances, Beshear has advocated for a shift in how the Democratic Party communicates with voters. He suggested that the party should use more direct language, such as using the word "hunger" instead of "food insecurity," to better convey compassion.
Beshear also discussed the role of faith in politics, citing biblical lessons as a foundation for supporting food assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He criticized President Trump’s past attempts to reduce SNAP benefits during a government shutdown and compared the president’s current political rhetoric to McCarthyism.
Regarding his political future, Beshear stated he will decide whether to pursue a 2028 presidential bid after the 2026 midterm elections and following discussions with his family. He has recently appeared at political events outside Kentucky, including U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn’s (D-SC) fish fry in South Carolina. Beshear also directed criticism at Vice President J.D. Vance, characterizing Vance's book "Hillbilly Elegy" as "poverty tourism" and disputing Vance's characterization of addiction and labor in Appalachia.
Voters and participants in federal assistance programs will also see a contrast in policy approaches. Beshear’s focus on SNAP benefits highlights a debate over food security that affects millions of Americans. A person receiving these benefits would notice changes based on whether the federal government pursues benefit cuts or expands them. Beshear argues that Democrats must frame these issues through the lens of faith and "normal" language to connect with voters.
The governor’s actions establish a potential blueprint for Democratic candidates in Southern states. By citing the balanced-budget requirements of governors and the past successes of former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, Beshear is positioning the role of a governor as a qualification for federal office. The next steps for this political trajectory include the release of Beshear's book on September 22 and his eventual decision on a 2028 run, which he indicated will occur after the 2026 midterm elections.