Beshear disputes significance of Aug. 3 in potential Senate vacancy

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

FRANKFORT, Ky., (KBSI) — Gov. Andy Beshear said Monday that Aug. 3 has no legal effect on his options if one of Kentucky’s U.S. Senate seats becomes vacant this year.

The statement comes amid questions about Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell’s extended absence while recovering from a fall. Beshear recently called on McConnell to publicly demonstrate that he remains able to serve or resign.

Some reports identified Aug. 3 as a possible deadline for holding a special election to complete McConnell’s term, which expires in January. Beshear said the date does not legally limit how he could respond to a vacancy.

Kentucky lawmakers changed the state’s vacancy process in 2024, removing the governor’s authority to appoint a temporary senator and requiring a special election. Beshear has questioned whether that law conflicts with the Kentucky Constitution.

There is currently no vacancy. McConnell has said he intends to complete his term.