By KPR
Frankfort, KY – The first Kentucky gubernatorial debate this fall featuring all three candidates included a speed round of questioning. Last night, Governor Steve Beshear, Republican senate leader David Williams, and Independent Gatewood Galbraith appeared at an hour long broadcast event from Eastern Kentucky University. Each candidate was asked about topics like the economy, mountain top removal, and a statewide smoking ban. Regarding the economy, Gov. Beshear pointed out the Kentucky has fared rough economic times better than most states. Williams responded saying we cannot maintain the status quo. Galbraith blamed the issues on partisanship. All three said they support mountain top removal with proper standards and oversight, sighting the importance of coal in the state. Regarding the smoking ban, Gov Beshear said he supports the right of local governments to implement their own laws in this area. The three candidates are scheduled to face off again, just days before the election, again on K-E-T.
