Two former Kentucky governors say future opportunities for Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes to seek higher office remain strong. Julian Carrol and Martha Layne Collins had front row seats Monday for Grimes' announcement in Lexington.
Carrol served as Kentucky governor from 1974 to 79 and has been a member of the state senate for 10 years. The Frankfort Democrat says he's not surprised Grimes is choosing to seek re-election for secretary of state. "At her age, and her aggressiveness, and her energy level, she's got plenty of time to run for governor of Kentucky," said Carrol.
Grimes is 36 years old. Martha Layne Collins, the only woman to serve as governor of Kentucky, introduced Grimes at the Lyric Theater gathering. Collins says she agrees Grimes is still young and has plenty of time to move up the political ranks. "She's listened to a lot of people. She's listened to their advice and their encouragement one way or the other; she's given it a lot of thought," said Collins. "She and Andrew have spent a lot of time on this and she's made this decision and I'm proud of her and I'm for her."
Kentucky House Speaker Greg Stumbo says he's not disappointed that Grimes chose to seek re-election instead of running for governor. It appears Attorney General Jack Conway will be the most recognized democrat seeking the governor's office this year.
Stumbo admits Conway's ability to garner enough votes outside of his hometown of Louisville is a discussion point. "It's a long race and there's a lot of ground to cover," Stumbo said. "I think democrats have proven that when we're united and we're together that we're a pretty viable force in this state, as we were in these House races last year."
Lexington’s Geoff Young has also filed as a democrat in the governor’s race. Stumbo has been mentioned as a candidate for governor many times. He said again he didn't have any plans to run for governor, adding he's content being Speaker of the House. ?
