This archive report was first published on 6 November 2019.
On a chilly autumn day, voters in Kentucky gathered to cast their ballots in the 2019 midterm elections. For many, the decision to vote for Democratic challenger Andy Beshear was not driven by enthusiasm for the candidate, but rather by their dissatisfaction with incumbent Governor Matt Bevin.
At a Knights of Columbus gathering on the banks of the Ohio River, voters expressed their frustration with Governor Bevin's leadership style, describing him as 'imperious' and 'meanspirited.'
John Whitt, a 72-year-old retired physician, explained that his vote was motivated by his concern for education. 'I think education is the biggest thing,' he said, 'the preservation of public schools.'
Arthur Blanford, a physician, and his wife, Nancy, also voted for Beshear. Dr. Blanford cited the need to 'treat teachers well, and without disparagement,' and to address the opioid crisis ravaging the state. He opposed Governor Bevin's efforts to curb Medicaid expansion.
The Blanfords, like many others who voted for Beshear, were not necessarily enthusiastic about the candidate, but were driven by their outrage with Governor Bevin. 'We're ditching Moscow Mitch,' Dr. Blanford said, referring to a nickname given to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
As voters cast their ballots, it was clear that Governor Bevin's personality and policies had alienated many in the state.
