In his weekly briefing, Beshear was quizzed about how a second Trump administration will be received in his office and what message it sends to Democrats.
The governor pointed to initiatives such as medical marijuana and job growth as examples of how the state has broken through partisanship in the past. The Democrat also took heart in a few other numbers — even if they still represent solid supermajorities for Republicans.
"The people of this state, despite a a massive win by President Trump here, elected the same number of Democrats and Republicans to the state House and the state Senate. That's only, I think, the case in a couple of states, even across the United States," Beshear said. "What they're saying is they want us to get things done. And I think voters are less ideological than than many try to put in the analysis. I think they're more focused on who will get things done."
Asked about his own plans in 2028, the term-limited governor — and former vice presidential contender — did not signal any particular office he may be interested in, but did keep his options open.
"I'm proud to be the governor of Kentucky. I'm excited to continue to be governor every single day for the rest of my term. We'll see what the future holds in the future, but right now my only focus is on this job, about making sure I continue to stand up for Kentuckians and all Americans to ensure that their rights are respected," Beshear answered. "I will work with any administration when it benefits Kentucky. I will oppose any administration when it hurts Kentucky or threatens our democracy."
On the issue of EV's, which have become a central pillar in his administration's economic messaging, the governor had expressed worries before the election that former President Trump's rhetoric on alternative energy might slow down investment. Now, post election, Beshear says he hopes to show the returning president how EVs are directly related to some of his stated priorities.
"There are 10,000 jobs on the line here in Kentucky, and it's my hope that not just every member of our delegation will step up to ensure they continue in the future, but then also the new Trump administration sees that they are jobs helping out working people," he said.
