Kentucky Governor Gives State of the Commonwealth Address

Read what Gov. Beshear had to say.

(Frankfort, Ky.) - Governor Andy Beshear delivered his seventh State of the Commonwealth and final Budget Address on Wednesday night. 

His primary message to Kentucky families is that the “state of the commonwealth remains strong; but our people, our commonwealth and our country are facing serious new challenges, and it’s our job to meet this moment.”

The Governor began his address by sharing that, for the first time in his lifetime, a large portion of the American public is questioning one of the most important foundations of our country: the American Dream.

“The American Dream is as simple as it is powerful: If you work hard and play by the rules, you can get ahead and build a better life,” said Gov. Beshear. “As leaders, we have a responsibility to reignite and refuel the American Dream. For the sake of future generations, it must burn bright in the minds of our people.”

Gov. Beshear stated that the American Dream begins with a job – and that no administration has created more. In the last six years, the Beshear administration has more than doubled Kentucky’s previous investment record with over $45 billion in new investment, marking the first-, second-, third- and fifth-biggest years for economic development on record. Team Kentucky has also broken job-creation records, with 68,000 new jobs at the highest three-year average for new wages in our history.

To ensure this success continues, the Governor’s proposed budget begins by reinvesting in job creation through $70 million for site development, $100 million for infrastructure to support large projects, and $25 million for a rural economic development fund to bring jobs to every part of the commonwealth.

Gov. Beshear also announced a proposed $150 million investment in Kentucky’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Combined with private funding, it will create $1 billion in new housing for Kentuckians across the state.

Other components of Beshear's speech included efforts to expand healthcare, progress being made on roads, public safety, and Pre-K for All. 

For the complete text of the Governor’s address, click here. The speech can be viewed on the Governor’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.