Kentucky’s best known summertime political event takes place this Saturday in western Kentucky. The Fancy Farm Picnic has seen its share of political speeches for more than a century.
The first Fancy Farm, held as a local affair, came in 1881. Much has changed over those 140 years including a movement of the primary election. Matthew Howell is an associate professor of government at Eastern Kentucky University. He said moving the Primary Election from August to May in 1956, set the stage for a campaign launching picnic on the first Saturday in August.
“Prior to this point, you could just keep an eye on it to make sure everything was working the way it's supposed to, but now is the time to really pay attention and think about who you’re going to vote for in November,” said Howell.
Howell said Fancy Farm is not so much the official kickoff to the fall campaign as it used to be. He cited advertisements already in play in the U.S. Senatorial campaign between incumbent Rand Paul and challenger Charles Booker.
Governor Beshear, for the second year in a row, will not attend. The Kentucky governor’s race is next year. Howell noted it’s not a given Beshear will participate next August.
“Retail politics still matters, especially in a state like Kentucky, so going out and shaking hands is a key part in getting elected in this state. You know I have no idea whether he will go or not. I think that’s probably a decision he hasn’t made yet,” said Howell.
Howell added some politicians, particularly incumbents, may view the Fancy Farm affair as more of a risk than a benefit.
