Kentucky Politics Weekly: Recent Episodes
Kentucky Politics Weekly
KY Political News, notes and random thoughts from Tres Watson, the former Spokesman of the Republican Party of Kentucky, along with a rotating cast of Republican and Democratic political operatives, former elected officials and and reporters.
Sen. McConnell gives a health update, RFK, Jr. does some good in KY, a debate over hemp is ongoing in Washington, and KPW searches for signs of life in the Red's front office.
Fancy Farm 2026 is a wrap! The KPW crew has post-game coverage with Craig Richardson, Michael Meredith, Jason Howell, Kim Moser, and Dave 'Buzz' Baker!
It's Fancy Farm week! KPW has a preview, along with a very bad week for Andy Beshear, a rookie mistake by Zack Dembo, and one Lexington resident REALLY wants their KFC.
Randall Weddle may no longer be a Mayor but he's still making news; and fellow mainstay FCPS joins him in a busy news week
Are there important things going on in the world? Sure. But this week, the real focus for KPW has been on the UK candidacy of Count Binface. The Crew discusses that, and other, less important stories such as JCPS and FCPS scandals, Senator McConnell, Iran, Ukraine, and Maine.
Back by popular demand, former State Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer joins the show to talk State Fair Board drama, air conditioning, and the US Supreme Court and, the crew works to answer the question: do aliens walk among us?
FCPS has progressed from total cluster to raging dumpster fire, AG Coleman takes on predictive markets, inflation hits Iran (in a good way, for the IRGC), and some goats draw the ire of a union.
KPW holds out first ever live recording at Slainte Public House in Georgetown! State Senator Matt Nunn, State Rep. Vanessa Grossel, CJE Joe Pat Covington, and Dr. Ralph Alvarado all make an appearance as the crew talks gas taxes, FCPS clusterf*cks, and more!
Interim General Assembly meetings have begun and the gas tax is a hot topic. KPW brings you up to speed on why you should care. Also, a one-two punch of George Santos and Hunter Biden news? What more could you want?
Kentucky is gearing up for the beginning of the interim General Assembly session but, in the meantime, we've got Randall Weddle news, a rocket ship explosion, a faulty casket, and a possible baseball strike.
The Kentucky Primary is over and we have a full breakdown of the results and what it means for the Commonwealth. Also, a new KY Gov poll, the crew tries to tamp down some conspiracy theories, and Tres is very excited for a special vote in October.
Early voting has begun in the Commonwealth and KPW has a look at the races you should be watching on Primary Night, including a few races that have gotten wild towards the end.
Donald Trump changes the races in Kentucky with two big endorsements, a quick look at the 15 day pre-primary campaign finance reports, and is another global pandemic on the way?
Derby season is upon us and KPW is back for our 7th Annual KY Derby preview with Gene McLean of thepressboxlts.com, brought to you by the Associated General Contractors of Kentucky. But first, we've covered cocaine sharks and cocaine salmon, how about cocaine candidates?
The 2027 Gubernatorial race has started, Andy Beshear is fighting UK, and the 30 day pre-primary campaign finance reports are here!
KYGA26 is in the books and KPW has a look at what passed, what didn't and who is mad at who. Also, are we on the verge on an excommunication? And Jared debuts in his new role as a war reporter.
The General Assembly is officially in veto recess and KPW has an update on what passed in the final hours of the first part of the 2026 KY General Assembly session. Also, new polling in the US Senate race and candy theft.
With a few days left in the 2026 KY General Assembly, what bills are on the move? The KPW crew highlights a few of the ones they are watching. Also, cocaine sharks, vaping squirrels, woman who marry rivers.....we've got a lot for you.
KPW hands out the First Annual Best Act Relating To Title to Rep. DJ Johnson for his Act Relation to Trophy Catfish and the crew talks to Rep Johnson about some of his election reform legislation. Also, the budget is moving, Iran is burning, and Afroman is America.
War in Iran, General Assembly updates, issues in KY prisons and foster care, and is there a positive side to shoplifting? All things the KPW crew discusses this week.
The General Assembly bill filing deadline has passed the the KPW crew takes a look at some of what's out there. Also, KPW Foreign Correspondent Jason Emert stops in to talk Iran.
We have a budget (kinda, sorta)! The General Assembly moves on and KPW has an update on the important pieces moving in Frankfort. Also, the US launches strikes against Iran, the State of the Union is a thing that happened, and one man puts the Commonwealth in the national headlines.
The 2026 Kentucky General Assembly has hit the halfway point! KPW covers a few of this week's highlights, including bills dealing with housing issues, felon voting rights, education, and tort reform. Also, Andy Beshear has a book and Tres has thoughts.....
The Kentucky General Assembly rolls on and KPW has a look at some of the bills they've found interesting that were on the move this week. Also, the KY Auditor takes on the Governor, the Epstein files roil Washington, and the French Olympics team is all kinds of sketchy.
It's a political double-whammy! FEC reports and new polling! KPW has a breakdown of what to make of it all. Also, State Rep. Peyton Griffee is with us and he answers the question: Why is Bullitt County how it is?
The beat rolls on in Frankfort and it was a big week for education bills and Abby is very excited! Also, the budget bill was filed but the crew has a primer on why you shouldn't get too worked up about anything in it just yet. Finally, there's praise for LMPD, pork chops as projectiles, and violent kangaroos!
Snowmaggedon is here but the legislature marches on, so the KPW crew has your new covered. Education bills lead the week in Frankfort while we are beginning to get campaign news for KY's federal offices
Former State Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer joins the pod to talk politics, bourbon, and gambling laws. Also, #kyga26 marches on, Minnesota is in conflict, and dudes are stealing donuts in Louisville.
The 2026 filing deadline has passed and KPW looks at every Federal and General Assembly race! While there weren't a ton of surprises, there are some crowded fields and the crew gives you their early thoughts and highlights some races to watch for the spring primary.
KPW heads into the holiday break with our annual conversation with the KY State Senate Majority Leader Max Wise as we look to the 2026 General Assembly. This weeks podcast is sponsored by LegibleAI, a new AI powered legislative tracking platform. Check it out at legiblepolicy.com
Our legislative previews carry on, this time with State House Majority Whip Jason Nemes. We talk 2026 budget, housing, AI policy, Medicaid, and more. Also, we take advantage of Rep. Nemes' history working in the court system to talk KY State Supreme Court.
The annual KPW legislative previews have begun! Union County Judge and new KACo President Adam Onan joins the show to talk about KACo's priorities in the 2026 legislative session. Also, candidate filings continue, a State Rep draw's Elon's ire, and there's a mess in Ann Arbor.
A new week of legislative candidate filings leads the show, followed by continuing discord in London, KY, a shake-up for the Cameron campaign, and Jared talks about the Netflix-WB merger.
It's a short Thanksgiving week but KPW has you covered for updated legislative filings, idiocy in Fayette County, dive bombing monkeys, and a huge entry into a Congressional race in Texas.
The shutdown is over, candidate filings are marching on, Abby made the news, and bears are mauling and chainsawing(?) people. Things are getting wild.
The 2025 elections are in the books and KPW talks about what, if any, conclusions should be drawn from the results. Also, we've got a new program for KCTCS, a Beshear photo flub, and one hell of a press conference in the oval office.
It's Halloween and things are spooky on KPW! Today, we've got a controversial Facebook post, SNAP benefits, Tucker Carlson, and a new Rat City USA!
After doing 6 hours of radio this week, Tres and Jared are kind of talked out, but that doesn't stop the news. We've got a potential new US Senate candidate, a potential invasion in Venezuela, and a potential demonic gate being built that could unleash spawns of Satan onto earth and end the world.
The Q3 campaign finance reports are out and the KPW team takes a comprehensive look at all the major GOP and Dem contenders in the open seat US Senate and 6th Congressional district races.
In the shadow of Tres' new Death Star, the KPW crew covers Andy Beshear's national travels, AG Coleman's Roblox lawsuit, the shutdown, and more orca news.
It's the return of Amy McGrath, Randell Weddle, and Madison Cawthorn. What else could Kentucky and National political content creators ask for!
The crew talks protocol when attending fundraisers, an about face on Ukraine, Tylenol, the national security importance of cabinetry and bathroom fixtures, and GWAR.
We've got an update on the killing of Charlie Kirk, LMPD crushing cars, Lexington police in Kratom, and some thoughts on some local Lexington media.
This week, we do away with our normal format and spend the whole show talking about the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the aftermath, and where we are as a nation.
It's a state news heavy week with an impeachment trial in London, retirements in Somerset and Lebanon, and yet another candidate in the 6th District. Also, the NFL is back and KPW returns to our gambling roots with picks from Tres and Jared.
We start with a stroll down Poopgate Rd., then saunter over to vote-by-mail way, before taking a hard right at CDC Avenue. And the KPW crew learns it’s not about the journey, rather, its about whether your protected from preventable diseases along the way.
Andy Beshear makes a major political mistake, a $10 million dollar ham, and Cracker Barrell uniting Americans, KPW has your news of the week covered.
It's football season in the Bluegrass and we've got Dave 'Buzz' Baker on to talk UK's prospects, NIL, media deals, and the future of college athletics. But first, the crew talks crime in Kentucky and DC, Putin in Alaska, and Laura Loomer's deposition.
We're past fancy farm and heading towards back to school and the Ham Breakfast! This week, we've got redistricting, a lawsuit in Louisville, more chicanery in London, and a plea from a Danish Zoo.
And that’s a wrap on Fancy Farm 145! The KPW crew, fresh off our stint on Fox 56, recorded live from behind the big stage to break down the speeches, jabs, and crowd. As a special bonus, we were joined by Fancy Farm MC Ashli Watts, Fox 56 political reporter Bode Brooks, and Congressman and US Senate candidate Andy Barr to get their thoughts on the proceedings.
The 145th Annual Fancy Farm Picnic is almost upon us and the KPW crew has some thoughts for those who choose to skip the state's premier political event (and the nation's premier Catholic Church picnic).
Campaign finance numbers are out, there's two more candidates in the Central Kentucky Congressional race, and Andy Beshear is in South Carolina. All this and talk of a thieving woodland creature.
Two eventful weeks off couldn’t be covered in one podcast, so we’re back for a second go around to finish it off. We’ve got the conspiracy theories, arsonists voting, and on again-off again relationship with Ukraine, and a new record for mentions of Singapore in one KPW (two).
It's been two weeks in life, but an eternity politically. Not only is this one long, it's going to have to be two parts. Since we last spoke, there's been the US bombing Iran, a massive budget bill passed with huge implications for KY, a sea change in the KY-6 race, a primary in SE KY, and more. This is just the tip and we'll have more this weekend!
As KPW rolls into a bit of a summer break, we've got lawsuits in Kentucky, immigration issues nationally, and bombings abroad. Also, an American hero is returning to his reclaim his crown this July.
Israel is bombing Iran, LA is on fire, Asian needle ants are attacking the South. Just a few of the crisis’s on the KPW crew's minds this week.
Democratic State Representative Adam Moore joins the show to talk about Pre-K, MAHA, and his experiences as a Freshman legislator. It turns out he and Majority Whip Jason Nemes have unknowingly formed an anti-8 bit Podcast theme music caucus in the General Assembly
Robin Webb leaves the Democratic Party, Fayette County is raising taxes (maybe?) Trump hates TACOs?, and Bob Menendez is back! All on a packed KPW!
It's Friday on a holiday weekend, we're tired and ready for a break, can you blame us? We've got education policy, tax policy, foreign policy, and monkey wars. This one is all over the place!
Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association Executive Director JC Young joins the show to talk County Governments. Also, Tres talks two of his favorite (and two of Jared's least favorite) topics: his hatred of raising the SALT Deduction cap and his love for local tax reform.
Former State Rep and good Irish Catholic Killian Timoney joins the pod to talk all things pope. Also, we ask the serious questions like can raccoons develop a meth tolerance and why wouldn't a snake handler keep antivenom nearby.
It's Derby week in the Commonwealth and the Louisville Thoroughbred Society's own Gene McLean is back for our annual KPW Derby preview, this year brought to you by the Associated General Contractors of Kentucky. Also, Tres has grievances to be aired and KY Wired rears it's ugly head yet again.
The KY Senate race gains a candidate, there's going to be a new pope, and there may be a new Secretary of Defense soon. Also, we learn important lessons about masquerading as a creepy clown and not licking your friends and co-workers.
We're back from a spring break hiatus. We've got KY Senate finance deadlines, issues with KSP, RFK Jr idiocy, bad Beshear poll numbers, and more!
It will never stop raining and Trump has imposed tariffs on penguins. Not sure what else we can say about this one other than ignore the fact that Abby's mic isn't turned on the first 10 minutes. It gets better.....
It's Sine Die in the KY General Assembly and it's a rare bonus Tennessee Hate Week as the Cats gear up to play the trash men from down south. Also, KPW Foreign Correspondent Jason Emert joins the show to talk Signalgate
Veto week is upon the KY General Assembly but that doesn't mean there's no news. We've got issues at KREF, Trump versus the DOE, Orcas wearing hats, and corrupt snack food magnates.
Whether it's the grind of the General Assembly Session or the fact that the SEC doesn’t know how to schedule and UK finished playing at nearly 2 AM, the KPW crew is tired. But the show must go on. We've got a look of the week that was in Frankfort, UK not teaching students about tariffs, and a summary of Bologna-gate.
Tariffs are here. Or they're not. Or maybe they are, we're not sure. Either way, we've got all the KY and national political news you need. Also, the police blotter may be becoming a standard segment of the podcast because we've got a lot this week.
We're past the midway mark in the 2025 KY General Assembly session and a few bills are moving. The KPW crew talks about library boards, conversion therapy, professor tenure, and more. Also, Trump-Zelenskyy goes south, measles in Kentucky, John Morgan is forming his own party, and more!
Well, they can't all be winners. Technical "mistakes" and scattershot thoughts by KPW's host plague this one but the crew powers through with discussions about Frankfort, Washington, drug catapults, and wayward seals. The audio gets better half way through once the technical mistakes are discovered, so bear with it.
The KY General Assembly is in full swing. The KPW crew takes a look at some of the legislation that has caught their eyes. Also, the KY Senate and KY-6 races from 2026 seem to be heating up, and KPW has thoughts.
The Kentucky General Assembly is back and KPW has you covered with some of our favorite (and least favorite) bills so far. Also, friend of the pod Ryan Underwood is here to pitch a bill that creates a new way for businesses to pay taxes. Finally, the KPW crew is VERY excited for the latest track to drop from Louisville Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control! That joint is lit!
A week that lasted a month in a month that lasted a year is finally over. We've got coverage of Andy Beshear's conference call, Library legislation, the guy with the brain worms, the woman who likes Assad, and a trash can full of popcorn.
We're 4 days clear of inauguration and the news simply won't stop. This week, we've got pardons, executive orders, convenience store joints, and makeup tips for Matt Gaetz from George Santos!
It's KPW's 6th Birthday and to celebrate, we add the original co-host, Tom Stephens and first guest, Adam Edelen, to the show. We've got ethical issues in State Government, education lawsuits, the tick tock for TikTok, and Tres has thoughts on snow removal and related issues in Lexington.
New year, same podcast! KPW is back in 2025 with a look at the news we've missed. The NOLA and Las Vegas terror attacks, the speaker vote, Carter's funeral, the first week of the KY General Assembly, and the case for taking over Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal! Also, a kudos to the fine folks at Pop Tarts.
We're back with part 2 of our 2025 General Assembly preview. We're joined by Democratic State Senator Cassie Chamber Armstrong for a discussion about tax policy, education policy, and how to shape the agenda from the minority.
Our 2025 General Assembly preview kicks off with a wide-ranging discussion with new State Senate Majority Leader Max Wise. Fresh off the State Senate Caucus retreat, Leader Wise has thoughts on where we may see the 2025 session will lead and what some of the priorities may be. Also, an in-depth discussion of Yacht Rock and Leader Wise takes a position on whether or not Poco is indeed Yacht Rock.
Consent Decrees in Louisville, a regime change in Syria, and KDP's financial woes lead the week. Also, on a very special KPW, the crew learns an important lesson to make sure everyone's mics are on, so please forgive Jared's quiet voice the first 15 minutes.
KPW is back after a Thanksgiving break and we've got Andy Beshear making moves in New Hampshire, thoughts on the assassination of a Health Insurance CEO, a recap of Jared and Abby's trip to Vegas, and the debut of a new podcast feature: Rate That Coup. This week: South Korea.
Jared and Abby are reporting to us live from the F1 race in Las Vegas, so it's an unusual, Saturday morning recording for KPW! We've got new KY Democratic House Leadership, Bearcat on Bearcat legal attacks, the departure of Matt Gaetz, and we ask the question, "Can an emu really escape if it's already feral?"
There's good news and bad news but KPW has it all. We've for JCPS issues, leadership elections, Trump appointments, and a fugitive wallaby.
The 2024 elections are over, DJT is back, and KPW have thoughts. Lots of lessons learned, unlearned, and relearned. So listen up for politics, asteroids, and William Wallace monkeys on the post-election KPW
The United States isn't the only country holding elections this time of year. KPW's official foreign correspondent Jason Emert joins the show to talk about his work as an election observer in Georgia (the Tbilisi one, not the Atlanta one). The crew also rounds out the election and talk about Andy Beshear's proposal to eliminate the electoral college.
It's that time again! KPW is here with your full, 19 Senate race and 100 State House race-by-race breakdown of the election. There's not as many competitive races as there were in the primary but that doesn't mean there aren't some interesting ones. Also a positive, we kept is under 2 hours!
We're a little over a week before the Presidential election and things are only getting crazier. KPW's got Arnold Palmer's manhood, Nazis, questionable science, and Tres and Jared are aggrieved by NFL refereeing.
Jared and Abby are on set, so we're remote this week but that doesn't stop the news. An organ donation scandal, a clan endorsement, a new McConnell book, and chili ice cream lead the headlines.
KPW is back from a week's hiatus and there's lots to get to. The scandal list long this week with LMPD, the Metro Council. and Juvenile Justice leading the way. Also, there's the aftermath of hurricanes and a discussion of the Kentucky Right to Life endorsement list.
Need your carpet cleaned? We've got a recommendation. Can't afford airfare to Turkey? We'll tell you how to get there. Want to make sense of dumb things politicians say? We'll try to help, but no promises.
KPW come to you this week from Bespoken Bourbon at Greyline Station in Lexington. We have a megacast of politicians behaving badly, including posing the question "How do you get banned from a strip club?" Also, praise for Rand Paul, the animal coalition of the willing, and a discussion with Bespoken CEO Scott Savage about their bourbon and the legal paperwork involved in building a distillery from the ground up.
It was debate week this week, and Nazi propaganda about people eating pets made it onto stage, so we've got that going for us. Also, Tres and Jared are not impressed with this week's football slate, Abby sticks her hands in other people's water (literally), and more.
Jared is out of town, which means it’s just Tres and Abby (and briefly, Linus the dog). They cover all the important news, like media errors, cinnamon bacon, and the Louisville porch pooper.
We've got a full card for KPW Night at the Political fights! Beshear v the DOJ! Beshear v Ball! Vance v Firefighters! Trump v Arlington! Boeing and SpaceX v Gravity! Sheriff (managed by Booze) V Tractor!
The Democrats are convening in Chicago and dolphins are attacking in Japan. We've got these stories and everything in between along with Tres and Jared's pre-season NFL and College Football bets.
After a massive and disappointing technical failure on the last show, KPW is back and better than ever with new recording equipment and better sound, but still with the same snark and 8-bit theme music! We've got Amendment 2 troubles in Pulaski Co, Russian restaurant yelp reviews, and the biggest politicians behaving badly segment in KPW history!
Another Fancy Farm is in the books and the KPW has a breakdown for you. Recording live from directly behind the stage, the crew is joined by State Representatives Michael Meredith, Wade Williams, and Suzanne Miles, State Senator Jason Howell, Fancy Farm Political Chair Steven Elder, and Mario Anderson of Spectrum News.
Biden out, Harris in, mems aplenty, Beshear for VP, the Olympics, and one persistent Louisville physician, this KPW hits it all and more!
It's another huge week in American politics. An assassination attempt, the RNC, and Biden potentially stepping aside. KPW has you covered as we march closer to election day.
Things keep getting worse for Joe Biden and Jake Cox loves it. KPW's got all your Democratic Despair news! Also, while Andy Beshear is running for VP, he seems to believe it’s a good idea to pick a fight nitpicking rules that could endanger children. Good idea or bad idea?
The KPW crew is back from vacation and breaks down the Presidential Debate and a week or huge SCOTUS rulings.
Former co-host Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher is back to fill in for Abby and Jared while they sail the Mediterranean. In this week's news, we've got the LMPD doing LMPD stuff, a win for the AG in court, and the dissolution of the UK Faculty Senate.
Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe drops into the podcast studio to talk her first term in the State Senate, AI, and more. Also, there's talk about Dolly Parton, submarines, and Tres lays down a firm ban on cricket talk.
Donald Trump is convicted and the North Koreans are attacking South Korea with poop, so it's just another, normal, everyday week on KPW. Also, Tres and Abby have their biggest argument ever about the importance of statistics to baseball vis-à-vis every other sport.
The primaries have ended, turnout was low, there weren't many upsets, time marches on. The KPW crew looks at it all in front of a live audience at the KY Rural Broadband Association. Also, killer Iranian Mountains and a Utah family competes for a Darwin Award but they'll have to beat out the Colorado GOP to win it!
It's almost Primary Election week in Kentucky! KPW has a full breakdown of the State House and Senate races that will be on the ballot this Tuesday. Also, the Louisville Metro Police continue to answer the question "can we make things worse?" with a resounding YES WE CAN!
We're two weeks out from the election and the Super PAC's have started spending. We've got a summary of what the KPW crew is seeing so far in advance of next week's primary day preview show. Also, Chris Kolb, dead brain worms, dog murderers, and cock fighting! It's a packed show!
Derby 150 week is upon us and, for the 5th consecutive year, Gene McLean from thepressboxlts.com is joining the show to give us his insights into the field. Also, Tres is worked up about Allison Grimes and Phil Shepherd, Jared is worked up about campus protesters, and everyone has lots of thoughts on Kristi Noem.
It’s that unique Kentucky lull between the General Assembly and Derby, so there's not much state news but there’s plenty of national and world events to get to including big votes in Congress, protests on college campuses, and more politicians behaving badly!
The 2024 KY General Assembly is over! We've got a look back at what was a fairly uncontroversial session, as sessions go. Also, politicians behaving badly, Iran on the attack, and UK coaching news.
Thank god almighty, the 2024 veto recess is here! KPW has you covered with all your news on what bills passed, what bills didn't, and what's left to come. Also, Tres has his 2024 MLB picks and Jared is excited about the Reds.
The Commonwealth is in a combined state of mourning and outrage following Kentucky's NCAA Tourney loss but never fear, Tres and Jared inject a political angle into it! Tune in for Fire Cal talk, a General Assembly Update, and more US House Speaker drama!
The KY General Assembly is finally picking up the pace, moving multiple major pieces of legislation and rolling out the Senate version of the state budget. Also, there's talk of Rudy sex tapes, Ohio pranks, what not to do at that AT&T store, and Jared kicks off a new segment: his British Royal Family update.
KPW takes the show on the road to the KY Magistrates and Commissioners Conference! Abby, Jared and Tres talk the week in politics, including Super Tuesday, a SOTU preview, and new conflict over an 80 year old picture. Then, JC Young and Michael Logsdon from KMCA join to talk all things County Government.
Nuclear news in Kentucky with the announcement that Mitch McConnell will step down as Republican Leader in the Senate. Abby, Jared, and Tres have a breakdown. Also, the bill filing deadline passed in the General Assembly, what among them interests the KPW crew?
KPW Foreign Correspondent is back for a conversation about the Ukraine and European Politics. Also, Jared and Abby hate America and Freedom....or so says a recent press release.
Katelyn Bunning with Dependable Power First Kentucky stops by the show to talk energy issues. But first, the General Assembly is reforming open records laws and looking at early childhood development, Kentuckians are looking to move up in Congress, and it's a bad day for Russians hoping for more freedom.
Not a great week for Speaker Johnson, Joe Biden, or Tucker Carlson, but there is a potential windfall on the horizon for Kentucky's dentists. We've got you news and more on this week's KPW!
Another week of the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly session is gone and, while things are moving slowly, the budget is beginning to move from the House to the Senate. Also, Ron DeSantis likes to fly private, RFK likes Only Fans, and Abby dislikes germs in Senate hearing rooms.
Frankfort is heating up! Trump won New Hampshire and owes $83 million! Justin Timberlake is coming back to Rupp! It's a huge week and KPW has got it all covered!
It's the end of a short legislative week but that doesn't mean it wasn't a busy one. More DEI legislation, the SAFER KY Act, the state budget, and more are highlighted!
Rabbi Litvin, Chairman of the KY Jewish Council and one of the leading voices for the Kentucky Jewish community, joins the show to talk about the rise of antisemitism, the current conflict in Israel, and how calling political opponents Nazis minimalizes the Holocaust.
It's Iowa Caucus day and IT IS COLD! The KPW crew talks Iowa, Hunter Biden, DEI and crime bills and more!
It's one of the highest of high holy days in Kentucky Politics, Filing Day! the KPW crew has you covered with an obscenely long podcast that had a snapshot reaction to every race from President to State House. It's long but hang in there, because you'll get insight you won't get anywhere else this weekend!
For the final KPW of the year, Chad Harpole joins the show to, along with Abby, offer some thoughts and memories of beloved Frankfort lobbyist Judy Taylor and her life and impact on them personally and Frankfort as a whole.
It's been a really bad day for Tres and Abby because they hate the fact Sen. Damon Thayer is retiring, but here we are. Tres makes it through the show without insulting the Eagles and Sen. Thayer talks about his decision and the future. Also, the mayor of Boston is definitely not racist and adios to the president of UPenn.
Candidate filing season marches on and KPW is here to keep you updated on who is in and who is out. Also, George Santos isn't in Congress, but he's cashing check, the Buffalo Bill's head coach is bad at analogies, and the zombie deer apocalypse is here.
Podcast Content Machine George Santos has been expelled from Congress! Jared, Tres, and Abby review the highlights of his deeds and mourn the loss of guaranteed podcast content. Also, the election has been certified so candidate filings are available. The crew takes a look at who's in and who's out. In addition, Tyler Campbell from the KY Rural Broadband Association is on the line to talk all things broadband.
It was a raucous week in Washington with elbows thrown, punches threatened, and wars of words all over the place. Sadly though, KPW's favorite content gravy train may be coming to the end of the line. We've got all your news plus early candidate filings, a change at Juvenile Justice, a question of ethics, and a discussion of the SEEK formula.
Kentucky voted and boy, was there a lot of split tickets. The KPW crew breaks down the results, looks at a few winners and losers, and previews the future. Also, the orcas are back and they're angry, a look at the Grammy nominees, and the usual array of gambling picks.
Thank the lord almighty, it's almost election day! KPW breaks down another last-minute poll, awkward check presentations, and a wrap-up of Abby's favorite mail. Also, there's a bus driver sickout and a weird event in Louisville and MTG's got nicknames for her favorite theater going Congresswoman.
Early voting is open in KY, the candidates are up with their closing ads, and things are tightening. KPW breaks down the state of play as we enter the backstretch. Also, there's a new speaker, shrooms are legal in California and, apparently in Washington State, and things are still bad in Israel. On a more hopeful tone, Tres' college friend, educator and author PJ Creek joins the show to talk about the importance of civics education and pitch his book We the People and the President.
An evening podcast mean's Abby is asleep but Jared is joined by a crew from his Leadership Kentucky class. There's ethical issues in Louisville and, well, things aren't great in Washington or abroad.
Things are...well...less than swell. Happy trails to a Frankfort original, Congress is a mess, Israel is a mess. At least we have George Santos and a post-doc program in magic to entertain us!
Polling! Chaos in DC! Rudy! Nazis! Dogfighting! This show has everything...except a quality internet signal. Bear with the technical difficulties as the KPW crew talks about another big week in politics.
It's a special Saturday podcast! Jared is fresh from Commonwealth Stadium and Tres is monitoring his 95 degenerate bets. Abby is along for the ride and shooting them both disapproving looks. Oh, also, Congress is in chaos, Trump is taking on tay-tay, and there's more from the crew's favorite Tennessee Mayoral race!
Abortion is the topic of the week in the KY Gubernatorial race as the candidates square off in their first joint appearance. Also, How much is 1 kg of gold worth? Bob Menendez wants to know.
The Godfather of legalized sports gaming in Kentucky, Adam Koenig, joins the show to talk politics including why you shouldn't vape at a musical, hookers as lobbying tactics, and the monument to stupidity that is Matt Gaetz.
FINALLY!!! Sports gaming as come to Kentucky and KPW is embracing its long running undercurrent of degenerate gambling. Oh, also, there's politics with a call for an audit, a rise in 'other' voters, the Gubernatorial campaigns debut bio ads, and more!
State Rep. Kevin Bratcher joins the podcast to talk about the Louisville House Republican Caucus' proposals for reforming the Jefferson County Public School system. Also, Jared is big mad about a notable absence from the announced slate of sports available for wagers in Kentucky.
The KPW Crew breaks down the KY Farm Bureau Ham Breakfast, GOP Presidential Debate, why not to fly private in Russia, and so many Trump mugshot memes!
KPW has thoughts on the JCPS busing disaster; Tres even surprises Jared with his thoughts on breaking up the district. Plus, Trump gets indicted (again), some congrats and happy trails, and our man, the content machine himself, George Santos is back.
KPW is live from Fancy Farm. The whole crew is here for a breakdown of the speeches from the hot, sticky picnic grounds of St. Jerome's.
Jared and Tres talk Trump indictment, Jason Glass's resignation, coups in Africa and, most importantly, preview this Saturday's Fancy Farm Picnic!
Friend of the program and Executive Director of the Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association JC Young is on the show to talk about the state of the Counties and disaster recovery efforts. Also, there's updates on the Governor's race, more Trump indictments, and Hunter Biden having a bad day in court.
The KY Governors race is starting to heat up! There's controversy and new (old) polling in the KY Governor's race, Trump is heading for a 3rd indictment, MTG is saying MTG things, and Jared shares strong feelings on pop country as a genre.
The greatest whodunnit in modern political history is upon us: Who left their cocaine in the White House?!? KPW tackles his burning question and more on the latest episode.
KPW's official Eastern European expert Jason Emert is back on the show to talk the failed mutiny in Ukraine. It's also a court heave show, with major court decisions in the SB150 case and multiple SCOTUS rulings.
KPW is back! Tres has an update from the Reedy Creek Development District then the crew talks campaign finance, Congressional feuds, submersibles, sportswashing, and the animal uprising.
It's an XL podcast with former co-host Stephenie Steitzer! Trump indicted, UFOs, the Iron Sheik! We're everywhere on this one!
The debt ceiling, a special election, pride month, labor strikes, sports washing, and tv shows to stream, this show has everything to kick off a hot summer! Enjoy the show before Artificial Intelligence kills us all!
Quarles for Governor campaign Manager (and Tres' former Deputy) Jake Cox joins the show to talk about his time on the campaign trail. The crew also talks about Andy Beshear's Board of Education controversy, DeSantis' rough launch, and an update on the Ukraine War, among other items.
Kentucky's primaries are over and we have our the Republican and Democratic tickets. KPW breaks down the slates and talks about all the other political news out there including this week's George Santos update and the continuing DeSantis-Disney feud.
Early voting has opened and KPW has a look at the last week of the KY Gubernatorial Primary. Also, 1st Amendment and LGBTQ lobbyist Michael Frazier joins the show to talk about his recent op-ed about the new state poet laureate and a questionable new policy at some of KY's universities.
KPW looks at the finest show ponies in both the Governor's race and this weekend's Kentucky Oaks and Derby! First, Jared and Tres cover the KET debate and talk campaign finance issues. Then, KPW's official horse racing expert, Louisville Thoroughbred Society founder Gene McLean joins the show to talk Derby 149.
Jared is responsible for nothing he says during this one. He is high on cold meds and distracted by Formula 1 qualifying on his phone. Other than that, the last of the KY Gov contenders is on air, there was another forum, the AFT chair testifies before Congress, the state is clearing homes in EKY and much more!
It's getting closer and closer to the KY Gubernatorial primary. KPW talks about the KSR GOP forum and the latest campaign finance filings. Then, they shift to national issues, talking about Diane Feinstein and Clarence Thomas.
KPW is back from a vacation hiatus and the show is packed with everything from Trump indictments to sports gaming becoming law and beyond!
KPW delves into the New York Times' piece on Jamie Comer, Beshear's Vetoes, TikTok under fire, data privacy, the WBC, and the impact of sugar daddies (and mommies) on the economy of Boca Raton.
NCAA Tournament! End of Session! Putin Indicted! Gold Stars Retracted! It's a KPW packed with state, national international, and sports news!
The crew has a full break down of the political and legislative news of the day including breaking news of a big bank failure, debates and ads in the Gubernatorial race, and a wrap up of a big week in the legislature.
Huge week in KY politics and Tres and Jared have a lot on their mind. Especially Tres. If you like aggressive rants, this is the episode for you!
Man-about-Frankfort and advocate for Big Otter Ryan Underwood joins the show. The gang discusses the 2023 General Assembly bill filing deadline, the opioid abatement fund, and more transgender bills. Also, a reflection on the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the weekly George Santos update, and a mystic is back for another shot at becoming President.
Huge week in national and state politics and KPW is here to cover it all! Balloons, Nicky Haley, Drag Brunches, Booze at UK Baseball, we've got it all!
Frankfort is back and bills are moving. KPW has you covered for the big bills from the past week. Also, Biden gave the State of the Union, people are polling, the military is hunting balloons, and our man George Santos keeps delivering the content.
KPW handles a busy week of Gubernatorial campaign news! Andy Beshear has incoming friendly fire from AOC as well as issues in juvenile justice, disaster relief, and school vacancy numbers, Kelly Craft tweets about Jack Harlow, Ryan Quarles changes a tire, and Eric Deters slides into your snail mail box.
Dr. Chuck Courtemanche, head of the University of Kentucky Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise is back to talk debt ceiling, COVID, inflation, and his new study on the effect of pre-ACA Medicaid expansions on public health. Also, the crew talks about a couple of state political controversies, Alex Baldwin's legal troubles, NFL playoff picks, tragedy at a Kentucky Denny's, and Tres issues a public challenge to KSR's Matt Jones.
Abby is feeling under the weather so it's a guys show with Jared and Tres. Topics include Biden's classified documents, the never-ending gift that is George Santos, the debt ceiling, Beshear poll numbers, and lots and lots of gambling talk.
It's an insane news cycle in Washington and Kentucky! Chaos in Congress filing day in Kentucky, Matt Bevin trolling the entire press corps, and the kickoff of the 2023 KY General Assembly. But never fear, Tres, Jared, and Abby are here to break it all down for you.
It's a new era on KPW! Jared Smith and Abby Piper have joined Tres as the new co-hosts of the podcast. On their maiden show, the group discusses the World Cup, George Santos, 2023 candidates and rumors, and Abby's horrible and wrong opinion that Die Hard is not a good movie. At least she agrees it’s a Christmas movie.
Dalton Workman joins the show to talk about his charity, the Dalton Workman Foundation, and to round up the week's news including Biden making a swap with Russia, a US Senator changing parties, and a new coach for Louisville football.
Robert Kahne and Jazmin Smith of My Old Kentucky Podcast join KPW in the second half of a podcast crossover extravaganza. Tres joined MOKP to talk 2023 GOP Gubernatorial primary and Robert and Jazmin are here to talk 2023 down ticket races and throw out thoughts and speculation on potential Democratic candidates. Also, did Saudi Arabia buy a World Cup win and is U of L nation doing ok?
KPW takes a look at the 2022 elections with Democratic consultant Matt Erwin. The conversation is bookended by talk about Gov Andy Beshear's executive order on medical marijuana and the potential downfall of Twitter and what a cesspool social media is.
KPW's resident Horse Racing Expert, Gene McLean is back to talk politics and Breeders Cup. Tres and Gene bemoan the current state of politics (and just how uninteresting the races are this fall) before talking about the Breeders Cup and what to expect at Keeneland this weekend. Check out Gene's picks at his website http://www.thepresboxlts.com
Dave 'Buzz' Baker is back on the show to preview the UK-Tennessee game as well as the upcoming UK Basketball season. Also, Dave and Tres discuss fundraising and ad buys in Kentucky's hottest judicial races. All this while Dave traverses the grounds at Keeneland in preparation for next week's Breeder's Cup.
Always a listener favorite, KPW is back with another election preview. Democratic strategist Jared Smith joins the show as we go through all 100 State House races, 19 Senate races, and other campaigns of note on Kentucky's fall ballot.
Democratic Political Operative Will Carle joins the show to take a 30-day-out look at this fall's election. We also talk about the latest in Ukraine, pronouns in schools and government, student loan lawsuits, and Joe Manchin getting played by literally everyone.
After a lengthy break, KPW is back with political consultant Josh Thomas talking about student loans, immigration, unemployment, and the 2023 KY Gov race.
Adam Edelen is back to talk about the Inflation Reduction Act, the 2023 Governor's Race, Monkeypox, Rubicon Global going public and more!
State Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Whitney Westerfield joins the show for a recap of Fancy Farm, a talk about Donald Trump's legal issues, a recap of his trip to NCSL, and a quick talk about the Abortion amendment on the ballot this fall. Also, Tres has a little surprise for Whitney and his love of Pepsi and wrongheaded belief that Die Hard isn't a Christmas movie.
State Representative Derek Lewis joins the show to talk about the flooding in his home region of Eastern Kentucky. Also, they catch up on the news Tres has missed since the last show including 2023 campaign finance numbers, Andy Beshear skipping Fancy Farm, and more. Also, Tres' long held hatred of Canada has been rekindled thanks to the Toronto Airport!
Welp, KPW founder and former co-host Tom Stephens could only return on one of the biggest news days of the year; it's only fitting. Tom is back to talk SCOTUS' Dobbs decision (and other SCOTUS cases), Century Aluminum, the DOJ vs 1/6 Commission, and, of course, Publix!
The Lexington Herald-Leader's Linda Blackford joins the show today for a conversation about the Jan 6th Commission, 2023 Governor's polling, Andy Beshear and cannabis, the future of editorial sections in local papers and, most importantly, Lego coming to America!
After a short hiatus, KPW is back with a lot of ground to cover. Adam Haley joins for a discussion about the primary results, Charles Booker, gun control, and the Obi Wan series.
Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher returns to the pod to talk about a busy week in Kentucky politics. Roe v. Wade leaks, a new Gubernatorial candidate, Charles Booker in trouble?, early voting starts, independent expenditures gone wild, and a review of the Big Conn
Gene McLean of the Louisville Thoroughbred Society joins the show to talk all things KY Derby, KY Oaks and KY Horse industry. Also, Ryan Quarles is in and the 2023 Republican Gubernatorial Primary is heating up.
State Representative Josh Bray joins the show to talk about the two things Kentuckians care most about this week: Oscar Tshiebwe and Buc-ee's. Also, tax reform, the Louisville and Lexington Mayors races, KREF is a mess, and Rep. Bray's experiences in his freshman term in the legislature.
Kentucky Fried Politics' Nick Storm joins the show to recap the final two days of the KY General Assembly. The guys also talks about the future for bills that failed to pass and more major investments in Kentucky announced by the Governor.
Shane Noem joins the show to talk about KYGA22 and what's left to pass. Also, if you see a fox loose in DC, do you approach it?
Former KY State Treasurer joins the show to talk marijuana and gambling legislation, antisemitism, the war in Ukraine, and the Cats in Tampa.
Adam Edelen is back to break down the week in Ukraine, DC and Kentucky. Highlights include stolen tanks, feuds with Dolly and Sonia Sotomayor.
KPW Foreign Correspondent and International Law professor Jason Emert joins the show to talk about everything Ukraine. Jason has a unique perspective, having traveled extensively in Ukraine and has been talking with friends on the ground. No Kentucky talk on this one, but it should help you get up-to-speed on the situation in Europe.
Chairman of the KY House Local Government Committee Rep. Michael Meredith joins the show to talk about HB 475 (local tax reform) as well as a host of other General Assembly issues including sports gaming and marijuana. Also, Rep. Meredith and Tres react to Russia's invasion of the Ukraine. Finally, Tres' college degree comes in handy.
Fayette County PVA David O'Neill joins the show to hit the hot news. David and Tres cover the Greenberg shooting, a few hot pieces of Frankfort legislation, the San Francisco School Board election, the Ukraine and more.
WIthout a primary or general opponent, Lexington City Councilwoman Amanda Mays Bledsoe will be a member of the State Senate next year. Get to know her a little. But meanwhile, watch out for the gazpacho police!
Former Republican Party of Kentucky Political Director Adam Feldman joins the podcast to sift through the aftermath of campaign filing day and go through every KY General Assembly seat and who's running for them. Tres and Adam also talk about Ron Klein, education reform, and Louisville basketball.
Ohio-based political operative extraordinaire Matthew Henderson joins the show to talk about the KY budget, KY and Ohio redistricting, the mess in the US Senate, the Book of Boba Fett and cryptocurrency and NFTs.
Tres and Nick Storm kick off the new year with an in depth and wonky-ass look at redistricting! If you like maps, lines, and population trends, boy is your life sad and is this the episode for you!
On a special edition of Kentucky Politics Weekly, the voice of UK Sports Dave Baker joins Tres as JC Young of the Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association walks them through a tour of the Counties most affected by last Friday’s tornados by speaking with a Magistrate or Commissioner from each of the counties. They talk about what it was like when the tornado hit, the current situation on the ground, the most dire needs of their county, and where people can direct aid efforts to help their specific County.
Below is a break down of the counties profiled, the officials who joined the show, and timestamps if you’re looking for a specific county.
Muhlenberg County: Magistrate Darrin Benton 10:01.57 Taylor County: Magistrate Richard Philips 22:35.64 Marshall County: Commissioner Kevin Spraggs 34:24.061 Warren County: Magistrate Doug Gorman 45:57.725 Caldwell County: Magistrate Jeff Simms 57:24.461 Fulton County: Magistrate Wade Adams 1:13:21.977 Hopkins County: Magistrate Bill Rudd 1:22:49.819 Graves County: Commissioner Tyler Goodman 1:35:21.760
Jim Musser of the Kentucky Hospital Association joins the show to talk about the upcoming General Assembly session, KHA's goals for the session, how the hospitals are coping with COVID, and our crisis among health care personnel, among many other topics.
JC Young, Executive Director of the Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association joins the show for the first of the KYGA22 preview series. We cover all the issues fiscal courts will be working on during the upcoming General Assembly session including tax reform, jails, and transportation issues.
Former YRNF Chairman Jason Emert joins the show to offer his take on events in Eastern Europe. Tres and Jason also grouse about the role of Government, the role of political party organizations, and how no one understands them anymore.
Head of the University of Kentucky Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise, Dr. Chuck Courtemanche joins the show for a deep dive on economics, including COVID, inflation, and the SALT deduction. It's a wonkfest every policy nerd can enjoy!
Sean Southard joins the show to help Tres breakdown Tuesday's election results and in short, it was not a good day for Democrats. Also, a review of the first two days of KY election filings and a conversation about Charles Booker's outlook for 2022.
Frankfort mainstay Bob Babbage joins the show to talk about next Tuesday's elections, the relationship between the media and the Beshear administration, the role of lobbyists in Government, and the start of the World Series.
After a hiatus, KPW is back, this time with former McConnell campaign staffer and NKY Republican activist Shane Noem. Tres and Shane talk 2022 Jefferson County elections, COVID updates, and a host of other state and federal issues.
RPK Youth Chairman and auto aficionado Adam Haley joins the show to talk about the KY General Assembly special session. They also get into a few federal issues and Adam takes calls on the listeners car problems. Not really, but feel free to tweet him.
Former State Auditor Adam Edelen is back for a broad ranging discussion touching on everything from Afghanistan to his beloved Atlanta Braves. Also, he takes a bold stand against army worms.
Josh Thomas joins the show to join Tres in shaking their fists at the clouds. They cover Afghanistan, COVD, the 2023 Elections, a shake-up in the sports card industry and, of course, the idiots that run Only Fans.
State Rep Adam Koenig stops by to talk about his efforts to modernize Kentucky's alcohol policies and give a little preview of the 2022 session. The gang also gets into the Olympics, Jan 6th hearings, COVID policies, and more.
Lots of news early on a Friday morning. Delta (the variant, not the airline) is taking off, the executive branch is getting the heave-ho from the Capitol Annex, Amy McGrath has a new gig, and Tres is fired up about Fancy Farm.
First Amendment lawyer Scott White is back to talk about the future of the ACLU and the UK mural. Also, candidates are filing for 2022 and beyond and people are taking out hits on peacocks. Things are getting crazy.
Fresh from the lake, KPW is ready to tackle SCOTUS decisions, Critical Race Theory in schools, and Andy Beshear wanting to have his cake and eat it too.
Stephenie returns from her vacation and the show tackles Supreme Court decisions, a shake up in the Louisville Mayoral race, multiple interesting lawsuits, and more.
Stephenie is missing and presumed camping, so Gary McCollum fills in to cover the news. Tres and Gary cover friction among Dems in Congress, the unwelcome return of WOTUS, KY Supreme Court arguments, and more!
Despite a tragic cookie sheet burn on her hand, Steph (and Tres) power through the show. Topics include the end of the mask mandates, unemployment and the labor market, and lots of stories about idiots and their various actions including, but not limited to: Q Shaman, Q Shaman's lawyer, Mark McCluskey, Andy Beshear, and the Arizona GOP.
Jonathan Shell joins the show to talk through the weeks news including controversy in the state's foster care system, an ouster in DC, a run on gas, and a run on common sense.
Adam Edelen is back for a spin through the news including the 1619 project, the KEA v 120 Strong feud, and Commissioner Quarles' op-ed.
Owner of the Louisville Thoroughbred Society and long-time Frankfort personality Gene McLean joins the show to breakdown the Derby and help you make some money. Also, Tres and Steph continue to be amazed the Greg Fischer is still Mayor of Louisville.
Tres and Steph cover the Chauvin verdict, some Fayette County Public Schools issues and Andy Beshear's latest lawsuit. The pair also rants about the Lexington Herald-Leader and Courier-Journal's horrible websites and apps.
Founder of Kentucky Fried Politics Nick Storm joins to show to talk about his new website and some of the day’s news. Among the topics, the crew vents about the J&J vaccine suspension and discusses yet another police shooting in Minnesota.
The KPW crew are back from spring break and tackle the state and national news they missed. Get ready for a quick review of the final days of the KY Legislature and lots of Tres complaining about the national media.
KY Center for Economic Policy Senior Fellow and former State House Appropriations and Revenue Committee Staff Administration Pam Thomas joins the show to talk all things KY State Budget. Plus, mullets, march madness and vetoes, oh my!
Two'fer guest special! Miranda Combs joins the show to talk about her advocacy for parental leave for adoptive parents and then her boss, KY Secretary of State Michael Adams returns to the pod to talk election reform.
Tres and Stephenie run through a busy night in the KY General Assembly and Steph gets a little sidetracked trying to stay topical by breaking down the Julian Carroll/Thelma Stovall feud.
Tres and Stephenie cover a broad range of national and state news while focusing heavily on state and national finances and budgets.
Democratic Political operative and Eastern Kentucky native Kate Mueller joins the show to give some charities that are helping EKY flooding victims and to talk all things EKY, including some thoughts on how to move the region forward. Also, COVID relief, KYGA bills and lots of stories about dogs and chickens!
Campaign Finance Compliance guru Laura Larue joins the show to talk about the backend problems you may not know exist at the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance and Tres and Steph dissect why you need to care about them. Also, boat docks are running loose, Democrats are trying to use your tax dollars to campaign, cats and dogs are living together, its bedlam!
Tres and Steph talk some national politics (CPAC, Bloomberg is a bad boss, Manchin holding the line) and some state politics (Breonna bills, vaccines, schools) before delving into the debate over KY's open records laws with Amye Bensenhaver.
Laela Kashan from KASAP joins the show to talk about their legislative priorities and, it's the last day for KYGA bill filing, so you know there will be some craziness coming down the pipe!
After an 8 day layoff, KPW is back and there's a ton of news. Impeachment, Snow Storms, Senor Cruz Cancun Vacation, we hit it all!
University of Louisville Assistant Professor Adam Enders joins the show to talk about a recent research paper he's authored titled "Who Supports QAnon? A Case Study in Political Extremism” and discuss the facts about the QAnon movement. Also, Steph is back from her undisclosed island podcasting location and, newsflash: IT'S COLD!
Newly elected Corbin City Councilwoman Allison Moore joins the show to talk about her experiences on the campaign trail last year and how to get more women into office. Also, lots of news including an injunction in Frankfort, a win for Liz Cheney in DC, and Tres gives a few Super Bowl prop bets he would bet if gambling were legal in Kentucky.
The Kentucky General Assembly is back and KPW is talking legislative priorities with Keturah Herron from the ACLU. Also, veto overrides, the Democrats begin their civil war in earnest, and Tres reports on the results of the Royal Rumble, making Stephenie question her life choices.
Gary Houchens joins the show to talk about National School Choice Week and what that broad term means for students and the State. Also, Tres and Stephenie talk lots about grifters, both on Wall Street and in Kentucky (specifically in Nelson County).
Dave "Buzz" Baker joins the show to talk all things Wildcat as well as the affect NCAA and Congressional action on name, image and likeness legislation could have on college sports. Also, lots of inauguration talk and we find out about Stephenie's secret past as a sports mascot.
Former Editor of the Louisville Courier-Journal Rick Green joins the show to talk about the media, it's role in the broader political landscape, and the future of journalism. And, keeping up with KPW's reputation for high-minded debate, talk of the Paris Hilton sex tape makes an appearance.
Impeachments efforts abound at the state and federal levels and the KPW crew has you covered for all of it. Also, it's never wise to cross a Cheney and happy trails to Siegfried.
Noted lawyer and long-time liberal rabble rouser Scott White joins the show for a quick primer on the 1st Amendment and what is and isn't protected. Scott also lends his years of experience in KY politics to discussions about the bills moving in the General Assembly and the current COVID numbers.
In a break from our usual format, Tres and Stephanie share their thoughts on yesterday's invasion of the United States Capitol.
Tres and new co-host Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher tackle a busy news slate with the GA run-offs, Trump's phone call, and the start of the 2021 KY General Assembly all on the slate
KPW After Dark makes a return for Tom's last show. Topics include Congress COVID bailout, who gets the vaccine, and Tony Rice
University of Kentucky Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise Director Chuck Courtemanche is back to talk about what the Federal and State Governments can do to juice the economy and stave off a bagel (West Wing reference, if you get it, you get it). In addition, breaking news interrupts the programs and, will the Cleveland baseball team be renamed the Naps?
State Senate Minority Leader Morgan McGarvey joins the pod to give the Democratic perspective on the upcoming session. The crew hits on all the hot buttons, including the budget, executive powers and infrastructure. Also, how do you keep kids entertained at home on a cold winters day? Stair Slide.
Restaurants in KY are re-opening but does the data back it up? Tres and Tom discuss. Also, Tom rants about the KY Bar exam debacle while Tres rambles on about the MLB vs MiLB feud and how the Lexington Legends ended up stuck in the middle.
State Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer joins the show for the first of this week's 2021 Legislative Preview shows. But KPW doesn't just give you politics, they also give you a deep dive on the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac.
Former Herald-Leader and CN2 Political Reporter Ryan Alessi joins the podcast to talk about the state of political media and take a look back at his time in Kentucky. Also, do bingo halls have a legit gripe?
John Cox from the KY Chamber joins the show to talk about the Chamber's 2021 legislative priorities, both on COVID and in general. Also, lots of talk about the religious school closing court fight and Gov. Beshear's snitch line not being anonymous.
Friend of the show Gary McCullom joins KPW for that old, tired talk show trope: talking about things they're thankful for this Thanksgiving season. Also, the whole crew is a little frustrated with $170 million destined for KY schools that doesn't appear to have been spent yet.
Jim Musser from the Kentucky Hospital Association joins the show for the next of our legislative preview series. Just so happens, he also joins the day after new COVID restrictions and Tres is HOT over gyms being open but schools being closed.
Rep. Jason Nemes joins the show to talk about winning his House race in a suburban Louisville District as well as how the House Caucus went about recruiting candidates. Also, an update on the Brent Spence Bridge and KDP has a new Chairman.
The Kentucky State Supreme Court has spoken and the Brent Spence Bridge is on fire in a jam packed edition of KPW with Stephenie Steitzer Hoeslcher joining in on the fun. The crew also discusses LMPD's latest issues, Amy McGrath sitting on a pot of cash, and Tres' bizarre knack for random trivia.
The KPW crew kicks off the post-election/pre-General Assembly season with a conversation with JC Young from the Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association to preview the current state of and 2021 legislative priorities for Kentucky’s County Fiscal Courts. Also, the guys talk about Biden's win, the importance of the process and laugh at some bad advance work.
Tres and Tom are in a pretty chipper mood as they look back on the results of Tuesday's election. While at the time of taping, the presidency is still in the air, nothing is uncertain in Kentucky where, from Paducah to Pikeville, Republicans dealt a massive blow to Democratic hopes. Also, Tom asks Tres to put on his thinking cap and try to figure out what comes next for KDP, Republican legislative leaders and Andy Beshear.
With less than a week to go, Democratic strategist Matt Erwin is back to help KPW run through all 119 General Assembly seats up for grabs on Tuesday. Also, sad clowns shouldn't deliver COVID numbers.
Tres and Tom gear up for the homestretch by talking about Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation and elections lawsuits before the SCOTUS. The guys also talk about early voting numbers, KY's COVID rate increase and KY Dem's tendency to waste money on the campaign trail. Also, it's KY Proud Beer week!
Tres is fired up over the cancellation of planning for hybrid schools in Fayette County. The guys also talk about new polling numbers, a bad proposal to fix surprise medical billing, and more! Also, for the haters, no theme music this week because Tres forgot to bring the file on vacation with him.
The Director of the Institute for Rural Journalism, Al Cross, spent some time with KPW to talk about last night's US Senate Debate, the SCOTUS hearings and other news of the day as well as take a deep dive on the current state of print journalism and where it's headed. Al also gives some thoughts on the passing of Terry McBrayer and the crew takes a 50,000 ft view of Kentucky politics past, present and future.
KPW has run it's first ever poll and is the only media outlet in KY who has asked the question: Should Greg Fischer resign as Mayor of Louisville. Also, there was a fly at the VP Debate.
Former Republican Party of Kentucky Political Director Josh Thomas joins the show to give an insiders look at life inside a campaign for the final 30 days. Oh yeah, also, the President has COVID and UK is terrible at football (again.)
It's the day after the first Presidential debate and the crew broke down the absolute debacle in Cleveland. Also, Tres rages against the Fayette County School Board and they guys discuss the future of historic gaming in the Commonwealth.
Tres and Tom discuss three major items of politics news: the decision of the Breonna Taylor grand jury, the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the overturning of historical gaming machines in Kentucky. Also: Why is Amy McGrath going from Paducah to Pikeville?
Former Secretary of Labor and Education and Workforce (and UK and NFL great) Derrick Ramsey joined the podcast to talk about vocational training and the need to a more skilled workforce in the Commonwealth. Sorry in advance for the occasionally choppy audio but that's podcasting in the COVID era sometimes.
Sean Southard joins the pod for a busy news day. The State Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the Gov's emergency powers, the Louisville Metro Council put Greg Fischer on warning, and a gentleman in Frankfort goes full possum. You never go full possum. Also, Tres and Sean geek out with hot takes on grammar and Star Wars.
Time to preview Kentucky's federal elections! Does Josh Hicks have a chance? How much per vote will McGrath spend? Who's even running in these other Congressional districts? Adam Edelen joins the show as we answer some of these questions and more!
Former Chief of Staff for the KY Education and Workforce Cabinet Andy Hightower joins the pod for a deep dive on the Unemployment Insurance system, how it got to where it is today and what can be done to fix it and help those still waiting for help. Also, a derby weekend recap and well wishes for COVID infected legislators.
Tres and Tom have a lot to say about Nancy Pelosi's hair and Andy Beshear's not-at-all COVID related '4 for 4'. Also, an update on KY unemployment insurance (still bad), Greg Fischer (gotta go) and a Derby and Oaks preview (Oaks is gonna be great).
State Representative Adam Bowling joins the pod to talk about new news articles regarding Breonna Taylor's death, the (still going) unemployment scandal, high school sports and protesters at the RNC
The RNC, the BOE meeting about KHSAA's decision on high school sports, NBA protests and Hurricane Laura are all on the docket today as Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher is back on the KPW Zoom line.
Tres and Tom are back for another KPW After Dark! In typical rambling fashion, the guys talk about whether or not KY Democrats have declared war on farmers, the Governor's executive orders on evictions, the on-going RNC and more violence at Fayette Mall in Lexington.
Fresh off his national TV appearance in the Democratic National Convention Roll Call, Colmon Elridge joins KPW to talk about his experience with the nomination roll call as well as his thoughts on the DNC's 'virtual' convention. The crew also gets into COVID numbers, an additional $400 a month for Kentucky's unemployed, KHSAA's voted to reopen school and Thom Brennaman's hot mic moment.
KPW goes global with former Young Republican National Federation Chairman and International Law profession Jason Emert. The crew also breaks down UK and Tennessee's SEC schedules, discuss the first night of the DNC and talk about Kentucky's plans for voting in the General Election.
This podcast has everything. Kamala Harris, school closures, dumb decisions at KEMI, and that thing, when some Swedes want to meet Hank Jr but he's too busy doing cocaine.
Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher joins the guys to talk about COVID on college campuses, the cancelling of Kindergarten Cop and whether or not we'll see any Presidential debates.
State Senator Max Wise joins the pod to talk about his experience having COVID, the debacle at unemployment, a host of education issues and some talk about concerts and concert venues.
Tres and Tom catch up on the week's news, with scandals at uninsurance, the Ohio Speaker's arrest, and the sentencing of Jerry Lundergan and Dale Emmons on the agenda. Also, in case you were in aware, Tres has strong feelings on the Designated Hitter.
Tres and Tom fly as a duo today and talk about a very lengthy State Contract Review Committee meeting, the mask mandate, Gov. Beshear's bad week in court and skywriting. They also kick around the idea of starting their own fencing company to get in on the no-bid state contract action.
Democratic Political Operative Will Carle joins the podcast to talk about the weeks news including a possible mask mandate, police retirements, campaign workers unionizing, the possibility of no college football in the fall and the legalization of alcohol shipments in the mail.
Jonathan Shell joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from who got PPP money to Kentucky's primary election results. Tres and Jonathan also take strong positions on fireworks and competitive youth dance.
Political commentator and consultant Scott Jennings joins KPW to talk through the 2020 KY Senate Primary, how we got here and where we’re going.
Tres and Tom log the longest KPW ever while going over recent issues with the Beshear Administration along with a run down of every race in the 2020 Primary. Also, Tom gets attacked by wildlife. It actually happened and you can hear it all in real time.
Matt Erwin join KPW to preview Tuesday's Primary Election. They also talk about the tragic death of Carol Barr and Andy Beshear's Unemployment Issues
Carrie Glenn of the Justice Action Network joins KPW to talk about criminal justice and police reform in the short and long run. The crew also talks about the victory for LGBT rights in the Supreme Court, Charles Booker’s Senate momentum vs McGrath’s flailing, the end of the SATs and ACTs and Tres rants about baseball.
Tres and Tom are back with a guest-less edition of KPW. In today’s episode, the guys discuss Tom’s Herald-Leader op-ed in support of removing the Jefferson Davis statue from the Capitol rotunda, whether or not the twitter outcry against Paw Patrol is a joke, Greg Fisher’s general ineptitude and a whole host of other topics.
State Senator Ralph Alvarado joins KPW for a spirited discussion about his experiences providing health care in a nursing home setting during the COVID-19 crisis as well as his thoughts on Governor Andy Beshear's handling of the crisis.
OJ Oleka joins KPW for a conversation about his new initiative, AntiRacismKY as well as future of Kentucky’s Independent Colleges in a post-COVID world. Also discussed are civil war-era pensions, the coming two space vs one space war and what it’s like to have a newborn in quarantine.
Restaurant owner and State Representative John Sims joins the KPW Zoom line to talk about the protests at the Capitol, problems processing the flood of unemployment claims, State Parks not being open heading into the summer and running his Dairy Queen franchise in the COVID era.
(Former) politician Jonathan Miller is today’s guest to talk the state and future of the hemp industry. Among the other topics discussed are Tiger King, romance novels, cheerleading, NASCAR, food delivery services, poker, and, oh yeah, they do talk a little about politics.
KY Secretary of State Michael Adams joins the podcast to talk about what is and what’s not true about the changes Kentuckians will see when they go to vote in the June Primary election. After a talk with the Secretary, Tres and Tom talk about restaurants reopening, some nursing homes not getting the Medicaid funding they expected, Tom’s fantasy NASCAR team and the UK Cheerleading scandal.
Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher makes her return to the podcast to talk about Lexington’s COVID rate, rumors about schools reopening, problems for Louisville Metro PD and Title IX issues in Fayette County Public Schools.
Radio host and podcaster Leland Conway stops by the podcast to talk wild game meat, the death of Little Richard and the state of music radio, and Kentucky leading the nation in percent of workforce unemployed during the COVID crisis.
After a lengthy discussion about children’s books, The Last Dance and Americana Music, Morgan McGarvey and the guys eventually get around to talking politics and hit on extra security measures at the Capitol, Phase I reopening and the future of the Democratic Party in Kentucky.
Kentucky's Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles takes a break from riding his big orange tractor and joins the podcast to talk about where you can find a book that details every Farm Bill since the 40's (a real page-turner), reassures Tres and Tom that there will be plenty of meat in the grocery stores and declares his love for the movie Con Air.
Tres and Tom are joined by Harlan County Judge Executive Dan Mosely for a conversation about his experiences dealing with the COVID crisis in a small, rural county with no confirmed cases. His thoughts on the Phase 1 reopening plan and how rural health care facilities are set up to handle a potential increase in cases.
State Senate Majority Leader and horse racing enthusiast Damon Thayer joins the podcast to talk about how he's been dealing with the quarantine, what's next for the General Assembly, Governor Beshear injecting himself into a decades old rap feud and when Kentucky's signature industry will get back on the track.
Christian Motley joins the podcast to talk about expanded COVID testing, threats against the Governor, Second Chance lending in the CARES Act, budget short falls for cities and Kentucky’s Democratic Senate Primary.
Dave "Buzz" Baker joins Tres and Tom to talk about how a sports guy deals with the COVID crisis. Dave gives his thoughts on the future of NCAA sports, the potential effects of decisions made on eligibility for athletes by the NCAA, and some talk about how the newsroom looks under social distancing. Dave also regales the guys with some stories of the Macho Man Randy Savage.
Tres and Tom check in with former KY State Auditor and noted extrovert Adam Edelen to see how he's holding up during the quarantine. Adam gives some book and TV recommendations before the guys talk about the end of the 2020 General Assembly, protests at the Capitol, COVID response thus far, the future of the economy and what needs to be done as we progress through the crisis.
Tres and Tom talk about the controversial decision made by KY Governor Andy Beshear to take down license plates of church goers, along with other COVID related issues. Then, the guys are joined by State Rep. Adam Koenig, sponsor of the bill that legalized the direct shipment of alcohol, to go over some recommendations of what to buy once the bill becomes law on July 1.
Tres and Tom talk about the latest in coronavirus news, including a new relief package being delayed in the Senate, numbers flattening in NYC and NJ, and potential changes to Kentucky’s elections this spring and fall. Then the guys are joined by Pike County Judge Executive Ray Jones to talk about how the virus is impacting Eastern Kentucky, how the region is coping with it and what the future looks like for the region’s economy.
Tres and Tom are joined by Chuck Courtemanche from the University of Kentucky Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise to talk about an economist's view of the Coronavirus, the Government's reaction to it and the long-term implications on the economy. They also talk about some of the news of the day including Kroger limiting shoppers, Ryan Quarles' doing good work during the crisis and an idiot named Bob Gibson who is campaigning door-to-door during a pandemic.
Tres and Tom discuss Thomas Massie's primary after the President's tweets, the KY State Budget, social distancing extended to April 30 and Andy Beshear memes. Then, the guys talk about the passing of Tres' father and honor him by letting you know where you can stream some of his favorite comedies while you're on lockdown.
Tres and Tom talk more COVID, because it's the only game in town. The legislature is still in, the Governor hasn't sent home state employees, but everything else is shut down. The guys offer their thoughts on the virus and where we're headed and hand out some tips on some social media feeds with fun content for kids and adults alike.
Tres and Tom break cabin fever with some extensive COVID talk, including Governor Beshear's hypocrisy on virus policy and the funniest memes. Tom also unleashes on the Horse Park violating meeting rules to install a new director.
Tom and Tres talk corona virus, the news and some of the politics of it. In other non-virus related discussions, the State Budget is through the house and herpes monkeys are roaming Northern Florida.
Tres, Tom and Stephenie run through the Super Tuesday results, some pending legislation, THE SCOURGE KNOWN AS ASIAN CARP, and Tres' hatred of early voting.
Tres is joined in studio for a pop-up Podcast with former Kentucky Coal Association President, current Huntington Region Chamber of Commerce President and Nerd-about-town Bill Bissett for a discussion about Amy Klobuchar and Mayor Pete dropping out of the race for President, working in the PR, public affairs and lobbying world and lots and lots of nerd talk including surviving Comic Con, thoughts on Star Wars and the MCU, and comic book recommendations.
Tres and Tom are joined by Chuck Courtemanche, the interim director of the University of Kentucky Institute for the Study of Free Enterprise for a discussion about tobacco taxes, the South Carolina Democratic Debate, Tuesday's special elections and little league baseball.
Tres and Tom are joined by Stephenie Steitzer Hoelscher to discuss the bankruptcy of McClatchy and the state of newspapers, criminal justice reform efforts in Frankfort, and Andy Beshear's role in the Boy Scouts of America's sexual abuse claims and bankruptcy. They also ponder the question of whether or not Paw Patrol is capitalist propaganda.
Tom and Tres discuss the New Hampshire Primary, Mitch McConnell's very good week, the latest in bills (not)moving in Frankfort and wine delivery by drone.
Tres, Tom and Matt Erwin talk about the fiasco in Iowa, the State of the Union, marijuana policy, sports gaming and the state budget all while sounding like they're recording the podcast in a tin submarine at the bottom of the ocean. We do politics well but apparently are not pros at sound mixing....
Tres and Tom are joined by Adam Edelen to discuss Gov. Beshear's State of the Budget Address, the Iowa Caucuses and Sgt. Slaughter.