Adkins, a Democrat, announced his campaign Tuesday after filing the required campaign finance paperwork. He becomes the second major Democratic candidate in the 2027 gubernatorial primary, joining Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman.
Adkins stepped down as Beshear's senior advisor earlier this month after serving in the administration, where he worked with local leaders on disaster recovery, infrastructure and economic development projects. Before joining the governor's office, Adkins spent 32 years in the Kentucky House of Representatives, including serving as the chamber's Democratic leader.
In announcing his campaign, Adkins said Kentucky needs "a governor with the experience, backbone and record to take on these fights and win." He said his campaign will focus on lowering costs for families, strengthening public education and health care, protecting workers and creating economic opportunities across the commonwealth.
Governor Andy Beshear cannot seek another term because of Kentucky's term limits. The Democratic primary is scheduled for May 18, 2027, with the general election set for Nov. 2, 2027.
