Gov. Andy Beshear and Secretary of State Candidate Charles “Buddy” Wheatley confirmed their appearance at Fancy Farm for the 142nd annual picnic hosted by St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in far western Kentucky.
Both Republican candidates for those races — gubernatorial nominee and current Attorney General Daniel Cameron and incumbent Secretary of State Michael Adams — have already confirmed their attendance.
Both Lt. Gov. candidates have speaking slots reserved, though current Lt. Gov. Jaqueline Coleman hasn’t confirmed she plans to speak, and Daniel Cameron hasn’t announced his running mate.
The annual picnic is an event that allows Kentucky politicians to roast each other on a stage while supporters from both sides cheer and boo. It is considered the kickoff to the fall election season.
“Iowa is to presidential campaigns as Fancy Farm is to Kentucky campaigns,” said Shane Noem, chair of the Kenton County Republican Party. “It’s such a unique event that reminds us of the importance of rural retail politics and adds a bit of much-needed levity to what have become tense times politically.”
Beshear’s and Wheatley’s attendance were uncertain in recent weeks, but with both confirming their attendance, it means the state’s two biggest races this year will have full participation.
“I’m excited to join Kentucky’s time-honored tradition of political stump speaking at Fancy Farm – the only time this firefighter encourages a flaming roast,” Wheatley said.
The state’s other constitutional seats — agriculture commissioner, treasurer, auditor, and attorney general — are also up for grabs.
The attendees from those races who have confirmed are as follows:
Agriculture Commissioner:
Republican Jonathan Shell
Democrat Sierra Enlow
State Treasurer:
Republican Mark Metcalf
Democrat Michael Bowman
State Auditor:
Republican Allison Ball
Not confirmed — Democrat Kim Reeder
Attorney General:
Republican Russell Coleman
Democrat Pam Stevenson
U.S. Congressman James Comer, outgoing Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles, outgoing State Auditor Mike Harmon, state Sen. Jason Howell, and State Rep. Richard Heath have also confirmed.