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Judge rules London mayor cannot run for reelection

London, Ky., Mayor Randall Weddle.
AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley
London, Ky., Mayor Randall Weddle.

A Laurel Circuit Court judge has ruled that London Mayor Randall Weddle is not eligible to seek reelection and ordered his name removed from the November 2026 general election ballot.

In a decision issued June 23, Judge Michael Caperton found that Weddle failed to meet Kentucky’s requirement that mayoral candidates live within city limits for at least one year before the election. The ruling followed a lawsuit filed by local residents who challenged Weddle’s residency status.

After reviewing evidence, hearing testimony, and visiting properties connected to the case, the court determined that Weddle’s primary residence is in Keavy, outside London city limits. The judge cited conditions at Weddle’s London property, including low utility usage and a lack of everyday household items, while finding stronger evidence of full-time family living at the Keavy residence.

Weddle argued that security concerns led his family to stay in Keavy temporarily, but the court rejected that explanation, ruling that indefinite residence outside the city could not be justified by unspecified safety threats.

Weddle’s attorney said the mayor will not appeal the decision, effectively ending his reelection bid. He did post the following statement:

Karyn Czar has been a journalist with WUKY since 2013 and is currently the Assistant News Director. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky and brings more than 30 years of broadcast experience to NPR. Karyn's work has been recognized with numerous Associated Press, Kentucky Broadcaster Association, Public Media Journalist, and Edward R. Murrow awards throughout her career.