250 Years In, Eyes on November: The Primed for 2026 Recap

Summary

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Andy Beshear Podcast

Episode: "250 Years In, Eyes on November: The Primed for 2026 Recap"

Date: July 2, 2026
Host: Andy Beshear
Key Contributors: John McConnell, John Rabinowitz

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Episode Overview

In this milestone episode, Andy Beshear and his co-hosts reflect on the American experiment at 250 years, using the country's semiquincentennial as a springboard to review what’s at stake in the coming November and the 2026 election cycle. The episode recaps months of conversations with Democratic candidates from around the country, examining primary outcomes, campaign stories, and the values that are shaping the party—and the nation’s direction—amid continued political turbulence. The conversation weaves in recent current events, memorable interviews with candidates, and a heartfelt segment with young podcast interns about America’s future and the meaning of July 4th.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The U.S. at 250: A Time for Reflection and Resolve

• Andy Beshear frames the episode by invoking the spirit of the country’s founders and the unfinished nature of the American experiment. He urges listeners to see America’s 250th birthday as a call to action, not just a historic marker.

  “America’s 250th birthday isn't just a milestone to celebrate. It's a reminder of what we're fighting to protect. And the fight is very much on.” (Andy Beshear, 01:07)

• Emphasis is placed on the ongoing need for pragmatic, result-oriented leadership, especially as political divisions deepen.

2. Foreign Policy & Current Events – The Recurring "Fake Ceasefire"

• The panel discusses the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, focusing on the ineffective U.S.-Iran ceasefire claims.
• Quote:

  “At what point does the administration stop pretending that we have some agreement in place that has a ceasefire?”
  (Andy Beshear, 02:59)

• Skepticism over whether U.S. foreign policy has yielded any real progress, with references to past administrations and recurring cycles of conflict.
• Concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, potential escalation, and whether U.S. vessels are safe to traverse the region.

3. Leadership and the Use—Or Abuse—of Power

• Discussion shifts to recent reporting on Andy Beshear himself, his leadership style, and his willingness to assist other campaigns.
• The conversation critiques J.D. Vance for advocating invocation of the Insurrection Act after a high-profile killing by law enforcement.

  “What is the reaction of J.D. Vance? It’s not to come in and say, whoa, we just killed an American citizen. No, he wanted to invoke the Insurrection Act. He wanted to use Alex Preddy’s death at the hands of ICE to send American troops into an American city.”
  (Andy Beshear, 07:13)

• The group warns about the dangers of using federal force domestically and the precedent it would set.

4. America’s Birthday, Pop Culture, and Local Celebrations

• Light-hearted discussion on canceled acts at the America 250 celebration in D.C. (including Vanilla Ice) and plans for Kentucky’s festivities, featuring Walker Montgomery and the Louisville Orchestra.

  “I’m a little worried about Ice. I think they probably ought to be retrained, and I’m pretty sure he’s going to be up there rapping about them.”
  (Andy Beshear, 09:56)

5. State Power Struggles and Separation of Powers

• The Kentucky Supreme Court reaffirms the powers of the Governor, pushing back against legislative overreach by Republicans in Kentucky.
• Andy criticizes the hypocrisy of local actors who support executive power at the federal level but seek to erode it locally for partisan gain.
• Concern about bullying tactics in budget decisions and threats to local officials.

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Recap: "Primed for 2026" – Candidate Highlights and State Races

Andy and co-hosts provide a rapid-fire summary of key Democratic gubernatorial primaries and general election outlooks, revisiting conversations with top candidates. Themes include affordability, inclusivity, and leadership under crisis.

Maine: Hannah Pingree Wins via Ranked-choice (13:47)

• Key Insight: Hannah Pingree wins the four-round ranked-choice primary, eventually overtaking Dr. Shah.
• Quote from Pingree:

  “People…strongly want governors and leaders who will stand up to President Trump, will protect our democracy, will protect the rights of women, reproductive access, protect the rights of so many people that are being threatened right now… families are really struggling…housing and health care…if we don’t get those issues right, Maine will not be a place that young people can thrive.” (15:05)

• Noted: Messaging focus on affordability, housing, and health care; young people who moved to Maine during COVID.

Georgia: Keisha Lance Bottoms’ Decisive Win (17:05)

• Dominant win despite financial parity with rivals; overcomes doubts about her appeal beyond Atlanta.
• Quote from Bottoms:

  “I served as mayor under the first Trump administration so…there were so many things…that didn’t go as I would have scripted it. But…those tough times made me a much stronger leader.” (18:41)

• Republicans nominate billionaire Rick Jackson—potential for a Democratic upset with energized turnout.

New Mexico: Deb Haaland’s Historic Campaign (24:32)

• Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and the first tribal governor candidate in U.S. history.
• Quote:

  “It’s expensive to be poor.” (Recalled from her interview, 25:59)

• Emphasis on resilience from a military family, lived experience with poverty, and the necessity to protect democracy.

Ohio: Dr. Amy Acton’s Unexpected Strength (28:48)

• Acton’s personal story of overcoming homelessness and connecting with struggling voters stands out.
• Quote:

  “My whole life has been trying to solve these wicked hard problems. When you’re a kid going through things like that, you notice when people look the other way because it’s hard to see. It’s not that they don’t care, it’s just they don’t know what to do about it.” (31:43)

• Race remains competitive against Vivek Ramaswamy.

Texas: Gina Hinojosa’s Uphill Battle (33:13)

• Texas remains a GOP stronghold but anti-incumbency and a competitive Senate race may provide an opening.
• Andy: “But if there is a year… you get a candidate that goes out, busts their tail… somebody’s going to be the first to flip a state.” (34:45)

Iowa: Rob Sand and a Possible Flip (35:09)

• Praised for pragmatic leadership, energy, and strong connections to rural economic struggles.
• Andy: “We should be fighting everywhere. And I’m here to tell you in Iowa, you’re going to elect a Democratic U.S. senator… You are going to get a great man who is going to do a good job in this governor’s seat.” (36:14)
• Memorable “Casey’s gas station breakfast pizza” moment, highlighting local culture and camaraderie (39:40).

Colorado: Bennett vs. Weiser—A Contentious Contest (40:53)

• Two strong Democrats, both well-positioned for the general election.
• By episode’s release, the nominee will be known.

Kansas: Laura Kelly’s Legacy and a Toss-up (41:22)

• Current governor’s leadership weighed as primary unfolds. State remains a Republican lean but is unpredictable.

Michigan: Jocelyn Benson Rises After Gilchrist Dropout (46:08)

• Mike Duggan exits the race, removing the “spoiler” concern.
• Both Benson (Sec. of State) and Swanson (Sheriff) praised for resilience and voter connection.
• Noted: Both are endurance athletes—marathoners and Ironman finishers.

Arizona: High Stakes with Katie Hobbs (48:43)

• Hobbs faces Andy Biggs, an election-denying Trump loyalist.
• Quote from Hobbs:

  “I am 100%, every single day focused on how I can make life better for Arizonans. My top priority always is doing what’s best for Arizona. I can’t speak to the three Republicans that are running, but it seems to me like they’re more focused on loyalty to the president…” (49:54)

• Stakes are elevated as Arizona’s swing status remains.

Minnesota: Amy Klobuchar’s Candidacy (50:57)

• Seen as a heavy favorite; embodies state pride.
• Memorable moment: Klobuchar’s “Thanksgiving turkey gone rogue” story, providing levity and personal touch (52:15).

Coming Soon: Other Key States

• Wisconsin: Awaiting August 11th primary.
• California: Javier Becerra likely nominee.
• Oregon: Tina Kotek to be discussed in future episodes.
• Nevada: Aaron Ford leads prediction markets.
• Hawaii: Josh Green set for re-election.
• Maryland: Wes Moore is the heavy favorite.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• On Invoking the Insurrection Act:

  “You create a problem so that you can send U.S. troops into a U.S. city… That’s not democracy.” (Andy Beshear, 08:11)

• On Separation of Powers:

  “Thankfully the Supreme Court said the governor is the governor, and you can’t make another constitutional officer the governor.” (Andy Beshear, 11:56)

• On Economic Anxiety:

  “It’s expensive to be poor.” (Deb Haaland, cited at 25:59) “Affordability, affordability, affordability, housing and health care… That’s a consistent message that resonates with voters.” (John McConnell, 15:54)

• On Hope for America:

  “Love your country’s potential. At least we don’t have to love the current reality and we shouldn’t accept the current reality. We should want a lot better.” (Andy Beshear, 56:24)

• Pop Culture:

  “I’m a little worried about Ice. I think they probably ought to be retrained, and I’m pretty sure he’s going to be up there rapping about them.” (Andy Beshear, 09:56)

• On Family and 4th of July:

  “Just Fourth of July is that moment where, for me, I kind of take a breath and I think about where we are and where we need to go.” (Andy Beshear, 63:16)

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Intern Segment: 4th of July and American Identity (55:52–66:26)

• Host takes questions from Media Pros interns, offering advice and reflecting on America’s progress and potential:

  • Advice for a complicated 4th of July:
    “Celebrate the progress we’ve made, but not be accepting of the current reality. In the end, where we are right now is tough… take care of yourself first, regardless of how that looks.” (Andy Beshear, 56:24)
  • Envisioning America in 50 years:
    Hopes for a country where, regardless of background, “progress and a good life is possible for everyone” and where Americans are “together enough that we…we’re Americans first and Democrats and Republicans second, third, or fourth.” (Andy Beshear, 57:38)
  • Interns share their own hopes for belonging, mutual respect, and a more inclusive future.

• Light moments include:

  • Discussing 4th of July memories, family, and whether they “dress up” for the holiday.
  • Andy’s favorite historical figures: John Marshall Harlan and FDR.

• Fun Kentucky history trivia:

  • Andy discusses Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr’s Kentucky connections and floats the idea of a "Hamilton" sequel set in Frankfort, KY. (68:26)

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Closing Reflection

• Andy closes by connecting candidates’ stories to a broader call for civic engagement:

  "America's 250th birthday isn't just a finish line. It's a reminder of how far we've come and a call to make sure the next 250 years are worthy of the first…This democracy has never been a spectator sport, and right now, more than ever, it needs all of us on the field." (Andy Beshear, 69:05)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

| Topic | Timestamp | |-------------------------------------------|-------------------| | Opening Reflection: U.S. at 250 | 01:07 | | Middle East, "Fake Ceasefire" | 02:48 – 05:15 | | Leadership in Crisis, Insurrection Act | 07:04 – 09:03 | | July 4th, Celebration Plans | 09:03 – 10:32 | | KY Supreme Court, Separation of Powers | 10:54 – 12:00 | | Maine Primary Recap: Hannah Pingree | 13:25 – 16:49 | | Georgia Primary: Keisha Lance Bottoms | 17:05 – 22:36 | | New Mexico: Deb Haaland | 24:32 – 28:34 | | Ohio: Dr. Amy Acton | 28:48 – 33:13 | | Texas: Gina Hinojosa | 33:13 – 35:09 | | Iowa: Rob Sand | 35:09 – 40:53 | | Colorado: Bennett vs. Weiser | 40:53 – 42:21 | | Kansas: Laura Kelly, Upcoming | 42:21 – 46:08 | | Michigan: Jocelyn Benson, Changes | 46:08 – 48:43 | | Arizona: Katie Hobbs vs. Biggs | 48:43 – 50:57 | | Minnesota: Amy Klobuchar, Turkey Story | 50:57 – 53:55 | | Intern Q&A: 4th of July, American Identity| 55:52 – 66:26 | | Reflections, Call to Civic Action | 69:05 – 70:45 |

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Conclusion

This episode of the Andy Beshear Podcast serves as a capsule of both hope and accountability on America’s 250th birthday. Through personal stories, tough policy conversations, and a celebration of community, the podcast reinforces the message that America’s story is far from finished—and everyone has a role to play in where the next 250 years will lead.

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Transcript

[Lindsay]

I'm Lindsay and even before my diagnosis my hands were full as a mom and an investigator.

[Candidate Speaker]

After treating my HR positive HER2 negative early breast cancer, I wanted to do

[Andy Beshear]

everything I could to try to keep

[Lindsay]

it from coming back.

[Andy Beshear]

So I Talked to my doctor about

[Lindsay]

a treatment plan that included Kiskali.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Kiskali ribociclib 200 milligram tablets with an aromatase inhibitor is for adults with HR positive HER2 negative stage 2 or 3 early breast cancer with a high risk of coming back. Kiscali may cause serious skin reactions, liver problems and low white blood cell counts that may result in serious infections. Life threatening lung problems and abnormal heartbeats can occur. Your doctor should test your heart and blood before and during treatment. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening cough, chest pain or dizziness before taking Cascali. Tell your doctor all your medical conditions, medicines you take and if you're breastfeeding, pregnant or planning to be as it can harm an unborn baby. Common side effects include nausea, head headache and tiredness. Lindsay is a real patient, compensated for her time.

[Lindsay]

Learn [e-mail].

[Andy Beshear]

250 years ago, a group of people decided that something different was possible. They put it all on the line for that idea. And right now, that idea needs us. This week feels like the right moment to take stock of both where we've been and where we're going. Because America's 250th birthday isn't just a milestone to celebrate. It's a reminder of what we're fighting to protect. And the fight is very much on. Many of the primaries are in and the candidates who are going to carry this in in November have been chosen. And over the last several months I've had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most exciting, genuine, ready candidates running for office across the country. These are people who know their why, people who can win in tough places and who are showing up for their neighbors every single day. Today we're looking back at those conversations, the moments that stuck with me, the candidates I believe in and what I think they tell us about where this party and this country are headed. Because 250 years in the American story, it ain't finished. Not even close. So let's get into it. We begin this week with my conversation with the Johns. That's when I talk with John Rabinowitz and John McConnell about everything that's happened in this last week. Normally it's so many new things. We have to be really selective about what we talk about. But we've kind of gotten into Groundhog Day. We were there with tariffs. It was a new unlawful tariff for about 10 episodes. Now it's the fake ceasefire in Iran.

[John McConnell]

We will totally have to go back and check. I think that we may outnumber the tariff discussions at this point. And we definitely need to kick it off with, is there a ceasefire? Is there not a ceasefire?

[Andy Beshear]

And we ask this every week. And while Iran and the United States say there is, they have exchanged either missile fire or drone attacks for yet another week. The Strait of Hormuz is not fully open. Iran fired upon a boat trying to go through waters of Oman to get through. The United States has responded. I think Israel has fired into Lebanon. So at what point does the administration stop pretending that we have some agreement in place that has a ceasefire?

[John Rabinowitz]

And we had a 60 day MOU. Was that.

[Candidate Speaker]

Isn't that right?

[John Rabinowitz]

60 day memorandum of understanding. We were going to walk through that was very stern. I think we made it 10 days into it, maybe 12.

[Andy Beshear]

I don't think we were that far

[John Rabinowitz]

before the shot started being fired.

[John McConnell]

Again, when I, I mean, not surprising when I heard there was a military escalation. Not shocked. Right. But it made me think, are we negotiating with the right people? Number one. I mean, I feel like we, what we agree to never pans out. And so it has to be completely frustrating.

[Andy Beshear]

So the Trump administration, well, the President himself started a war that he shouldn't have for seeking regime change, which wasn't going to happen with the way Iran is structured. Set out different goals like eliminating their ballistic missiles, eliminating all nuclear feedstock that he is not going to accomplish one of. Then has this supposed 60 memorandum of understanding that Iran nor the United States seem to be adhering to 60 day period for negotiation where JD Vance will say, hey, they're gonna let in UN inspectors and Iran says, no, we're not. And all of it goes back to trying to get the same agreements where we started. Yeah, that existed in 2015 that Donald Trump tore up in 2017. Again, this is just a cataclysmic blunder in foreign policy, the likes of which I've never seen.

[John McConnell]

If you owned a vessel, would you use the Strait? No, absolutely not.

[Andy Beshear]

I mean, and your vessels are carrying oil or fertilizer, which the last time I checked are pretty combustible.

[John McConnell]

There is again supposed to be further discussions this week and hopefully there really will be a ceasefire so that we can stop talking about this as the first thing, thing of every episode we talk about. And then, you know, turning to something else. John, I don't know if you happen to look at read the New York Times this past weekend, but I did.

[John Rabinowitz]

There was something.

[John McConnell]

There was an interview. It said something. Andy Beshear eyes a bigger prize. I'm not really sure what that is. Do you know?

[Andy Beshear]

I want to win the Kentucky Derby. That's a jockey.

[John McConnell]

Oh, well, yes. That's not going to work.

[Andy Beshear]

It was a good story. I mean, this is one of the most critical journalists and editors at the New York Times. She's covered a lot of people, won a lot of awards, is incredibly well respected. And so I didn't expect it to be 100% positive. Journalists will never do that. They've got to say something. I think I was called stiff

[John McConnell]

and

[Andy Beshear]

something about charisma, but they called you

[John McConnell]

way worse than that.

[Andy Beshear]

Plenty of aura in Riz on this podcast. But the thing that they pointed out was how many folks are calling, asking me to help in their campaigns. And that's something that I'm happy to do. This being a critical moment in our country, I want us to have result oriented, pragmatic leaders that speak a little reason into the chaos.

[John McConnell]

And I'm glad again, they pointed out what a strong leader you are in times of crime crisis. I love that.

[Candidate Speaker]

So here again.

[John McConnell]

Yeah, and I mean, unfortunately, you've had a lot of experience in that. And also I thought it was really good when they talked about you being pro business and little thing things you've had to reach across the aisle on and to get things done. I thought it was a very, very positive article, actually.

[John Rabinowitz]

Well, and you talk about leadership, then you talk about the opposite of that. You talk about J.D. vance pushing Trump to invoke the Insurrection Act.

[Andy Beshear]

When this was in Maggie Haberlin's book Regime Change, which just came out, and she documents a discussion, it may have been in the chief of staff's office right after Alex Preddy is killed by ICE in Minneapolis. I mean, law enforcement has just killed someone for expressing their First Amendment rights. And we've all seen the video. This was a wrongful killing and by a way, overly aggressive law enforcement unit. And what is the reaction of J.D. vance? It's not to come in and say, whoa, we just killed an American citizen. No, he wanted to invoke the Insurrection Act. He wanted to use Alex Preddy's death at the hands of ICE to send American troops into an American city.

[John McConnell]

That seems to be talk about stirring up more unrest. I mean, the unrest would be out

[Andy Beshear]

of control, but it seems entirely disqualifying. You create A problem so that you can send U.S. troops into a U.S. city.

[John McConnell]

And when's the last time that happens? Probably George Bush. The first time. It's been many, many years. And so it's.

[Andy Beshear]

And before that, integration.

[John McConnell]

And if you think about that time when this was going on, I mean, you want to talk about the country was on edge. You do something like that and it's on tv.

[Andy Beshear]

Well, and this would be subjugating people. This would be occupying a city. Think about how many ICE agents were already there. You could argue that they had already occupied Minneapolis. But no, we're going to roll in American troops and show you who's boss. That's not democracy.

[John McConnell]

What message does that send?

[Andy Beshear]

It sends a message of authority, just not one that fits with our country and our Constitution. So as we're doing this podcast, we are running right up to the 4th of July, America 250. We've already been through the UFC fight, and now we're seeing, at least in D.C. weather and cancellations pushing us all the way from the biggest acts down through cnc Music Factory, which canceled. All the way to Vanilla Ice. All the way to Vanilla Ice, who was going to perform, but the weather did not work out, and he is crushed.

[John McConnell]

Listen, I cannot believe Vanilla Ice did not perform. This is craziness.

[Andy Beshear]

That was the best they could get at America 250 in Washington, D.C. so

[John McConnell]

are you not going to go to D.C. for the fair? Are you not making it?

[Andy Beshear]

I'm going to pass on that. You know, I'm a little worried about ice. I think they probably ought to be retrained, and I'm pretty sure he's going to be up there rapping about them.

[John McConnell]

So what will we be doing on the Fourth of July? Like, what is going on in Kentucky?

[Andy Beshear]

Well, our close friend Walker Montgomery is performing for Kentucky's biggest celebration. He's going to be our headliner. We're going to have the Louisville Orchestra and fireworks. But who better than Walker, who's not only been on this podcast, but is such a rising star in Nashville, to help lead us into the next 250 years?

[John McConnell]

Sounds like a blast. I hope we're invited. John.

[John Rabinowitz]

We're just going to walk downtown, I think, show up.

[John McConnell]

Oh, thank you. So I'm kind of going back a little bit, but in Kentucky, we had a big ruling that I know you've been waiting for for a while that reaffirms your oversight over some executive agencies.

[Andy Beshear]

It's really fascinating what we're seeing in Kentucky versus the federal government. Trump on the federal government is exerting this unified executive theory that he runs the entire executive branch, that nothing can be independent, that he can basically do almost whatever he wants. And Kentucky Republicans in the legislature are saying, yeah, you know, go Trump. That's right. Here in Kentucky, they're arguing that they can take away any authority, any duty of the governor and give it to any other constitutional officer, that you could take away anything that a governor does and give it to an agriculture commissioner, even though they didn't run for governor. And what it is, is it's just sad, hypocritical politics. You know, it's just about power. It's not even really about party. But thankfully the Supreme Court said the governor is the governor, and you can't make another constitutional officer the governor. If you want it, go run for it.

[John McConnell]

So win for separation of powers.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah, a win for that. You know, our legislature's also tried to pushed into the judiciary and even used impeachment threats to try to get what they want. And that's a problem that a supermajority creates. We have a Republican super majority in Kentucky, and what can happen there, and it can probably happen in the other direction, too, is you get a little bit of mob like mentality that we are the all powerful, all in charge. And that does not serve, you know, the people of our state. In fact, I hear them talking about the budget as our money. And now you even see threats that are being made to groups that they're supposed to represent if they disagree with them. So I lowered the gas tax by 10 cents because gas has been way too expensive to help get through the toughest part. And I heard a legislator say if a county judge goes along with it, they should strip them of road projects. I mean, that's just bullying. As promised, this week, we are recapping our series primed for 2026. That's when we had candidates in, especially for governor's elections in Democratic primaries. And we heard the different views and pitches of candidates in the contested elections and a few uncontested elections. Most of these elections are now over. There is a candidate moving on to the general, and we wanted to provide a recap for you. We'll start with John McConnell.

[John Rabinowitz]

Okay, guys. I guess I get to start this off with Maine. So looking through this in a. This was the most candidates we had, I think, without question. And then I'm gonna have to have Andy explain this a little bit because I know Hannah Pingree came through and she ended up being the nominee on the Democratic side. Four rounds. How does that work?

[John McConnell]

And it looked like Shaw got the most first place votes initially.

[John Rabinowitz]

Yes, first time.

[Andy Beshear]

So Maine has what is called ranked choice voting, where you don't just vote for one candidate, you then get to vote for your second place candidate and your third place candidate and so on. And what has to happen is a candidate has to get a majority, and if they don't have them in the first round, I think what happens is the last place candidate is removed and then their votes are dispersed to the others. And so Dr. Shaw, and remember, we had, we had Dr. Shaw, who was their Covid doctor, we had their Secretary of State, we had a cabinet secretary under Janet Mills, a labor leader, and Angus King, who's in the private sector. Dad's a U.S. senator. So, I mean, this was a cast of quality candidates. It took a while to figure out, you know, who was going to be the winner. So Dr. Shaw had the most first place votes, but didn't have a lot of second place votes. Really interesting. And so that eventually caught up with him that Pingree defeated Shaw in the final round by about a 56 to 44% margin. I think we have a clip of Hannah Pingree.

[Candidate Speaker]

When I'm out on the campaign trail, those are the things I hear about from people. I mean, one, they strongly want governors and leaders who will stand up to President Trump will protect our democracy, we'll protect the rights of women, reproductive access, protect the rights of so many people that are being threatened right now. So that's sort of the top issue that I hear about. But at the same time, families are really struggling. And Maine is a state that has struggled with this affordability crisis. We have a lot of people who moved to Maine during COVID So I have led on issues like housing and health care, because I think if we don't get those issues right, Maine will not be a place that young people can thrive. And Maine's economy, our future, is all about engaging young people and people of all ages in our economy and in our communities.

[John McConnell]

So, guys, what I think we will hear consistently in the messaging of the winners is affordability. Affordability. Affordability, housing and health care. I mean, like, that we're going to. That's a consistent message that resonates with the voters.

[Andy Beshear]

I think the other thing is that Hannah has the receipts like she's worked on those things and she's actually produced results. And so I agree. Are you focused on the things I'm most worried about? And have you proven to me that you can make a difference?

[John McConnell]

It Seems to me that this is a heavy lien for the Democrats like that they're going to win this. I mean when I look at the overall votes cast, it was almost double. It sounds like you got this one locked down.

[Andy Beshear]

This is, I would say a heavy lean. And remember there was a big ice presence in Maine too that was not appreciated by Democrats, Republicans, Independents, just the people of Maine.

[John McConnell]

Well, a great candidate.

[John Rabinowitz]

Yes, great candidate. And one thing she did mention in there that I think we will hear a few other ones talk about is about the young people who did come to Maine. How does she reach to them? And what you said, John, you know, the housing, how does that get affordable to where they can actually go there and live there and stay.

[Andy Beshear]

Alright, the next one up is Georgia. And I will tell you I wasn't surprised by the winner, but the margin of victory. If you remember, we have had a lot of great candidates in this. We thought they were all excellent. On the podcast we had Jeff Duncan, Jason Estevez, Michael Thurman and the winner, Keisha Lance Bottoms, who took in 56.2% of the vote despite having about the same money as all the other candidates. I mean really just dominated this election. I think she won all but one county. It was really impressive.

[John Rabinowitz]

Well, I passed mayor of Atlanta if I'm correct. So when you looked at what she did for Atlanta, it played out in the election.

[John McConnell]

I think this whole election, both on the Democratic side and the Republican side is going to be fascinating to watch. I thought for sure on the Republican side the lieutenant governor Burr Jones was going to come out of that.

[Andy Beshear]

That's right.

[John McConnell]

And he didn't. The Rick Jackson came out and Rick is a billionaire and self funded. And so it's really, I, it's, I do think you could have a Democrat for the first time or for a long time, sorry, not the first time, a long time. Become the next governor.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah, I think in most polls right now she's up by just a little bit. Maybe it's even in the margin of error. But that the perceived knock on her that the pundits would give is can she win outside of Atlanta? And guess what? She proved that yes, to a significant degree. I think we have a clip of Mayor Bottoms.

[Candidate Speaker]

Well, I served as mayor under the first Trump administration so there were so many things, as you know, that didn't go as I would have scripted it. But I can tell you those, those tough times made me a much stronger leader. I remember having a conversation with our team in the midst of the pandemic. Saying, God bless the child who's got his own and just sharing with them the need for us to figure it out. It was the first time in recent history, I think, that so many cities across this country could not look to Washington, D.C. for any type of support, and we were able to figure it out in a way that really shored up our communities. And so it's that same thought process that, God willing, when I'm elected governor of this state, that I will take into the governor's arm.

[Lindsay]

There are moments that define who you are and who you're becoming. And when those moments arrive, what you drive should rise to meet them. The Range Rover Sport commands attention from the very first glance. Every line, every detail engineered for impact. Inside refinement takes over with sculpted 22 way heated seating with available massage and a 13.1 inch touchscreen that puts everything within easy reach. But the Range Rover Sport isn't just about luxury. It's about uncompromised performance too. Delivering a powerful, agile drive that feels as confident as it looks. And with nearly endless ways to personalize, from interior finishes to wheels to unique colors and accessories, your Range Rover Sport becomes unmistakably yours. For those who expect more from every moment, there's a vehicle designed to meet it. The Range Rover Sport Exclusive offers available now. Explore further@range rover.com I'm Lindsay and even before my diagnosis my hands were full

[Candidate Speaker]

as a mom and an investigator. After treating my HR positive HER2 negative early breast cancer, I wanted to do

[Andy Beshear]

everything I could to try to keep

[Lindsay]

it from coming back.

[Andy Beshear]

So I Talked to my doctor about

[Lindsay]

a treatment plan that included Kiscali Kiscali

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Ribociclib 200mg Tablets with an aromatase inhibitor is for adults with HR positive HER 2 negative stage 2 or 3 early breast cancer with a high risk of coming back. Cascale may cause serious skin reactions, liver problems and low white blood cell counts that may result in serious infections, life threatening lung problems and abnormal heartbeats. Your doctor should test your heart and blood before and during treatment. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening cough, chest pain or dizziness before taking Cascali. Tell your doctor all your medical conditions, medicines you take and if you're breastfeeding, pregnant or planning to be as it can harm an unborn baby. Common side effects include nausea, headache and tiredness. Lindsay is a real patient, compensated for her time.

[John McConnell]

Learn [e-mail] I would tell you guys one of the things that impressed me about that interview and I encourage Our viewers listeners to go back was she's much like you, dealt with a lot of crises and handled them with grace. The other thing I thought was, what I remember is you asked her this question or she said that she was asked this question, can a black woman win in Georgia? And she says absolutely, yes. And so the confidence is there, the experience is there. I think she has a heck of a chance.

[Andy Beshear]

Well, she certainly has a great background to be governor. Being a big city mayor is good training. It doesn't have all the pieces, but you certainly come in having managed a large organization, having made tough calls, having to provide services and having to balance a budget. So I think has the real opportunity to be successful. And this one will be interesting to watch because it's one where most of political pundits have it as a toss up, but the prediction markets have it leaning Republican.

[John McConnell]

I was, that's what I was looking at right now. So the prediction markets definitely have Rick up by a sizable amount. The question becomes, John, I don't think Andy is head of the dga, is allowed to gamble at all.

[Andy Beshear]

I'm not going to support or oppose prediction markets. If I could bet this is one I would probably bet on with pretty good odds. She, she's a good candidate and I think right now might be the ideal candidate in so many ways in the south, especially with actions from this administration and the Supreme Court.

[John Rabinowitz]

And when we look at this race, of course, Burr Jones was Trump's endorsed candidate. No longer in it.

[Andy Beshear]

Right.

[John Rabinowitz]

Are we think we're seeing some of that play out now.

[Andy Beshear]

Well, if you remember back in my reelection, we had one of the primary Republican candidates go far, far right and ended up coming in third of three. But what happened to the candidate that won the moment he won, he went far, far right. Even though you would think in the primary that would be the direction somebody might go, but not in the general. So I think what we have to see here is yes, the winner Jackson was not the Trump endorsed candidate, but does he now go all in to get Trump's support and become that candidate? And listen, if you're not standing up to Trump right now and you're in the Republican Party, I think it's fair for Democrats to push back and to push back hard, given what we're seeing,

[John McConnell]

you know, in voter turnout in a lot of these races obviously will be key. It'll be interesting to see how motivated the voters are in Georgia, I will

[Andy Beshear]

say in the South, Democrats are fired up, turning out at a rate we've never seen I mentioned to you that Alabama, the Democratic primary doubled. Georgia, I think was historic. South Carolina, every single day of early voting broke records. And it was 70 to 80%, I think Democrat on many of those days.

[John McConnell]

Well, let's turn to a state I want to visit sometime, New Mexico. And we had two great potential candidates with Deb Haaland and Sam Bregman. Deb ends up winning and what a background with her, right? Former congresswoman and U.S. secretary of the Interior. Talk about experience. I remember parts of those clips. You talk a lot about fierceness with her and her background and upbringing. What is what made her today? And so talk a little bit about that race. It looks like, again, heavy lean towards Democrats. Looks like that one's going to be locked down as well.

[Andy Beshear]

That one is, I think, very likely Democratic. I think she is in a great place, beloved by that state because remember Sam Bregman, pretty good candidates, had one elected office in one of the largest counties, good lawyer son that's a Major League baseball all star. And remember, he gave me some tips on that, which I appreciate. But Deb ran a solid, positive race, brings real credentials of having run the Department of Interior with thousands of employees. And a lot of those issues that she deal with there are also New Mexico issues. I think she also is making history as the first, I think, governor from a tribe in the United States.

[John McConnell]

You know, one of the things that stood out when you interviewed her, what she said that resonated with me was she said it's expensive to be poor. And you guys talked a lot about that in affordability. And I've never forgotten those words.

[Andy Beshear]

Here's a clip of our episode with Deb Haaland.

[Candidate Speaker]

First of all, you know, thinking about stepping up and running for office in the first place. Speaker Pelosi used to say, you know, being a candidate is not for the faint of heart. That's definitely the truth. And you know, when I think about being here, so I think about my mom. My mother was a military wife. My father spent two years in Vietnam, and my mom stayed home for two years while my father was over in Vietnam caring for four kids, a de facto single mom of four. And she, she did that without help. Back then, they weren't giving military families a lot of support. And my mother was pretty much on her own. And I was raised watching my mom navigate that. I was, you know, now when I think about it would have been even difficult for me now, but she did that for us and she did that for my dad. And so when I think about Just like about her. But worlds, especially during this time in our country, with all the chaos and the cruelty happening across our country, people are having to do things they never thought they could ever do. I'm reading about folks who are protesting who have ever thought about stepping out of their comfort zone ever. But we're doing things by necessity. It's going to take all of us right now to protect our democracy, to stand up for our neighbors, to make sure that we are the voice for people who don't have a voice.

[Andy Beshear]

John, you'd mentioned the be fierce. And Those watching on YouTube see the signs behind. I mean, what a great tagline for where we are right now in the country, but also for your state. I mean, you can almost see, like New Mexico pride in her. And you, you see New Mexico and what a great fit that's going to be as governor of that state.

[John Rabinowitz]

When we talk about Deb, Andy, too, I mean, her connecting with the voters, being from a military family at the same time, her own family, having to use social networks to help them. I mean, food stamps. And having lived through that herself, you

[John McConnell]

can tell how much she loves her state.

[Andy Beshear]

As we leave New Mexico, much love to Michelle Lujan Grissom, the current governor, who is term limited, but also pulls the most complicated pranks on people. And I want to stay on her good side.

[John McConnell]

Will she continue to come to the derby?

[Andy Beshear]

I am sure she will continue to invite herself to the derby. All right, let's move to some that were either uncontested primaries that we've had on the podcast or not very contested primaries. I want to start with Ohio, because I got to tell you, Dr. Amy Acton has made me a believer. I did not think that Ohio would be on the table, but I didn't think we'd have the person who stood next to Mike DeWine during COVID a Democrat standing next to a Republican trying to save as many lives as possible, to be willing to step up, to put in as much work as she has and to. And to resonate with people so well.

[John McConnell]

So I would tell you, Andy, that her journey is incredible. And you really hear that in the episode where she came from basically nothing and by herself went through med school, is incredibly successful. Now, you have had to convince me that in Ohio she has a chance because everybody up there that I'm around seems to tell me that it's Vivek's to lose.

[Andy Beshear]

So the polling is in her favor, but is calling close. You have a competitive U.S. senate race, which is going to bring more dollars and attention you really have. The pundits that are only saying lean are instead of likely are in a state that hasn't been a lean in a while. But I'm.

[John McConnell]

You're a believer.

[Andy Beshear]

I'm seeing it. And it's not just that she can relate to so many people, haven't been homeless at times when she grew up. But her opponent, Vivek Ramaswamy, is so out of touch with where we are in the country right now. I mean, he's a billionaire. Talking about Ohio having too many universities and shutting some of them down when most people can't pay their utility bill.

[Candidate Speaker]

Yeah, well.

[Andy Beshear]

And you.

[John Rabinowitz]

When you. And one thing you mentioned a little John, a statement that sticks with you. And Andy, you just hit it, too. Whenever she lived in a tent with her brother in the winter and would have to walk and there was a family who would see them and feed them breakfast on the way to school

[Andy Beshear]

on their front porch.

[John Rabinowitz]

On their front porch. And then one thing she says in there that will kind of resonate is she said when she talks about kids can. Kids who can feel when adults look the other way when they see them. So someone who can speak to that with what we're going through right now financially, I think that has to connect with people.

[Andy Beshear]

Let's watch a clip of Dr. Amy Acton.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

So many people in my state right now are struggling. They're doing everything right, but there's no breathing room. And, you know, that's something I understand personally. I did grow up in Youngstown, Ohio, which is, you know, Bruce Springsteen songs that we know.

[John Rabinowitz]

Right.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

And it was a pretty rough childhood. I was a frequent flower flyer and children's services. A lot of abuse and neglect. And my brother and I actually lived in a tent in the middle of winter. Finally, at the age of 12, I was removed from that situation. We literally moved one mile away from where I had been. But I stayed in one school for the next six years. And then I got in med school right out of. Out of high school, accelerated BSMD program. Program. And so my life got better. But I was haunted by the kids I left behind at all my other schools who were just as nice, just as smart, but you could watch our lives go different ways. I didn't have words for it yet, but I was learning that your zip code can predict on average how long you will live, what kind of life you will have. And a lot of the theme for my running for governor comes from my childhood also being a doctor. It's. I've been trying to get behind the things that the root causes of things. My whole life, I'm almost 60. I'm turning 60 this month.

[Andy Beshear]

Happy birthday.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Oh, thank you. And my whole life has been trying to solve these wicked hard problems. When you're a kid going through things like that, you notice when people look the other way because it's hard to see. It's not that they don't care, it's just they don't know what to do about it.

[Andy Beshear]

So you want to be the governor that never looks the other way?

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Absolutely. It's a problem promise I'm making to Ohioans. You will never ever be unseen by me.

[John Rabinowitz]

Gina Hinojosa Uncontested and one thing I remember from her clips is focusing specifically on how do you get Texas affordable to where people can come and live there and continue to move to Texas as they grow.

[John McConnell]

You two are going to be hard pressed to convince me that a Democrat's going to win the governorship in Texas. So what would you say, John? Convince me.

[John Rabinowitz]

I mean it's going to be a hard race. Texas obviously is a heavy Republican state, but you do have some

[Andy Beshear]

with some candidates. I think the path is that number one, there's a lot of anti incumbency going around in the country. My life is getting worse. Why haven't you fixed it? We saw that in some congressional races. We've seen that in county judge races in Kentucky and Greg Abbott has been governor a long time. The second piece is the US Senate race which has James Talarico, who's proven pretty popular, versus Ken Paxton, easily the most corrupt politician I've ever met and I've met the president so that's saying something. And so that race is going to help her. And I think she's certainly out running a strong race. Again, that one is uphill. But if, but if there is a year and then there is, you know, lightning in a bottle that may be that U.S. senate race, then I at least think it is on the table and in play. Is it maybe on the periphery of being in play? Maybe. But that's why you get a candidate that goes out and that busts their tail and that raises the money and works to get their name out because somebody's going to be the first to flip a state.

[John McConnell]

I will say the prediction markets have the Republican favor by 90% so it will be uphill.

[Andy Beshear]

Let's go to, let's go to Iowa because we had Rob sand on and I've now campaigned with him a number of times and I truly believe not only Is Rob a great candidate? But. But that Iowa is going to flip. We have what I kind of view those that have followed politics for a while as a Sam Brownback type situation with their current governor, Kim Reynolds, incredibly unpopular. Things aren't going well in the economy and in the public schools because of lack of investment by Kim Reynolds. You know, Sam Brownback had basically cratered Kansas. And what happened? You got a Democratic governor. Rob is a pragmatic guy. He has worked really hard. He's outraising his opponents, he's up in a lot of polls. And I think when we had him on, you could see why he's such a good candidate.

[John Rabinowitz]

Well, he's a great guy and you can just feel that.

[John McConnell]

You mean I was Andy Beshear? Is that who we were talking about?

[John Rabinowitz]

I was Andy Beshear. Yeah. Since you were just there, I knew I liked him. Yeah. Since you were just there, could you feel the energy and crowds that would show up?

[Andy Beshear]

We should be fighting everywhere. And I'm here to tell you in Iowa, you're going to elect a Democratic U.S. senator. You're going to elect a lot of Democratic congressmen and women. You're going to give Rob a Democratic attorney general. And you are going to get a great man who is going to do a good job in this governor's seat. I was getting off the plane in Des Moines and people were saying thank you for being here. And I'm talking about folks that you might not expect to say that. I think people there are looking for a change. I think you've got a ton of soybean farmers that got hammered by the cancellation of usa, hammered by the cancellation of farm to cafeteria programs, hammered by the unlawful tariffs that dried up a lot of the purchases from China, hammered by the war in Iran, which has spiked the price of diesel. I mean, they are struggling mightily. And Kim Reynolds hadn't helped them. And Donald Trump certainly isn't helping them. And this is a real race because of that. I think the US Senate race there may actually be in play. Josh Turek is their candidate. He is a Paralympian who has won two gold medals for the United States in basketball.

[John McConnell]

And Rob is their current auditor, is that correct?

[Andy Beshear]

He is. So he is one being pretty far down the ballot, which is tough.

[John McConnell]

Right?

[Andy Beshear]

I mean, my first election, all the polling was up, but the top of the ticket went down by nine points. It almost took me down, too. So him winning these last, what, two, three elections is really impressive.

[John McConnell]

And, you know, he gets out there. He said he did over 100 town halls. I think during that.

[Andy Beshear]

He does. And I was there when he sang America the Beautiful, which. Which he does. And people were into it.

[John McConnell]

Oh, that's great.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah, he. Big crowd, a lot of energy all over. I think that. I think that Iowa's going to be an exciting election.

[John McConnell]

And kind of like you, if I remember right, he said that the legislature tried to take some of his auditing powers.

[Andy Beshear]

Oh, yes. That they tried to prevent him from going after graft, theft. You know, they like to say waste, fraud, and abuse. There's so much out there. Well, they took away the ability of the auditor to go find him.

[John McConnell]

You know, it's pretty straightforward. I mean, number one, this state has already elected me statewide two times. Each time they have done that, it's been after the state went for Donald Trump. But there's something I think most people miss about Iowa. We are a state that doesn't really like politics.

[Andy Beshear]

We.

[John McConnell]

We don't really like politicians. And one of the reasons that we went heavily for Obama and then heavily for Trump is those guys are the same. They were willing to challenge their party's orthodoxy. They were willing to do things differently. And I know from hearing it on a regular basis from Trump supporters that they see that same quality in me. And I think that's why we get a lot of support from people who are just. They're frustrated with politics. And that comes down straight even to our campaign slogan here. Not redder or bluer, but better and truer. You need a shirt like that.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah. Those watching on YouTube, Rob sand did the podcast in a T shirt. Lots of points for that. It would have been better had it been an Andy Beshear podcast. T shirt or sweatshirt. Points to whoever shows up before we

[John McConnell]

get to the next one. Can you tell us about the pizza?

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah. So when I was in Iowa, Rob sand had pizza from Casey's gas station. It was breakfast pizza, and it was delicious.

[John McConnell]

That sounds amazing.

[Andy Beshear]

It was. It had eggs and bacon and. And I gotta tell you, I'm a big fan.

[John McConnell]

Governor Beshear, this here is one of the finest delicacies in all the land in Iowa. Casey's gas station breakfast pizza.

[Andy Beshear]

This isn't even brunch. No, this is straight up breakfast.

[John McConnell]

Full on breakfast. So this is eggs, bacon, cheese.

[Andy Beshear]

You can't go wrong with bacon.

[Media Pros Intern]

No.

[John McConnell]

Or pizza. Combine them and it's almost perfect.

[Andy Beshear]

That's breakfast on a pizza.

[John McConnell]

I'm gonna take this home. It's gonna be breakfast tomorrow.

[Andy Beshear]

I'm gonna take this with me.

[John McConnell]

Okay?

[Media Pros Intern]

That's fair.

[John McConnell]

I can get one like three blocks from my house. You can bring it home and the whole family can try it.

[Andy Beshear]

We'll see if it makes it all the way. I think we've got a couple in Kentucky. If we don't, that is my next economic development trip. And when we are going to have breakfast pizza in the Commonwealth.

[John McConnell]

Love it.

[John Rabinowitz]

So we're going to have to reshoot one of these in the morning at some point to have breakfast pizza.

[Andy Beshear]

Oh, no, I had breakfast pizza at like 9 o' clock at night. It was great.

[John Rabinowitz]

There we go. Any time of day, it fits.

[Andy Beshear]

So now we're going to move to Colorado where I mean this is really a top tier primary of a sitting U.S. senator versus the sitting Attorney General Michael Bennett versus Phil Weiser. It's going to be really close and I know it's gotten chippy there because they both really want to serve, but I think Colorado is going to be really lucky. The one that wins, that will be the governor. And either of them having met and gotten to know them, will be a very good governor.

[John McConnell]

And it looks like they're spending some serious money in that race.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah, they have both raised. Bennett has kind of his community for fundraising, his base from his times running for the US Senate. Phil Weiser created this big grassroots fundraising system around the state. Some people didn't think it would be competitive in the beginning just because they watch US Senate races, but it most definitely is. And both of them have really compelling stories. Both desperately want to do this job

[John McConnell]

for the right reasons and solid Democrat lean, regardless of who comes out.

[Andy Beshear]

And we are filming this on Monday. By the time it comes out on Thursday, we will know the winner. We'll look forward to having them back on the podcast. Michael Bennett haven't been on once. Phil Weiser twice, once as a candidate and once explaining one of the lawsuits that AG's have filed.

[John Rabinowitz]

So moving on, Kansas will be in August. So you look at Laura Kelly, Cindy Holscher, both two really great candidates. They're moving forward. We'll know, I guess in August. Kind of how this is going to turn out. I mean, Andy, do you have a feeling for the lane?

[John McConnell]

It was Ethan, right? Ethan Corson and Cindy, and she's the favorite right now.

[Andy Beshear]

It's hard for me to tell because it is in the midst of all of it. I think she came in starting with higher name id. I haven't seen the fundraising. This is an area it's going to be really interesting in the general election, whether it awards Democrats for Governor Laura Kelly's strong leadership. She is a no drama, somewhat low key but incredible, incredibly competent individual who I've got a really strong friendship with. Do people say we want more of that and go with the potential Democrat, or does it revert to maybe what people would think about Kansas? Has it been long enough since Sam Brownback just hammered their economy, governed so badly their Supreme Court ruled their system of public education was unconstitutional, ran out of money for roads, couldn't give any economic development incentives. That's how bad it was because he tried to take the income tax from where it was to zero immediately. And everybody should take a lesson from that.

[John McConnell]

And I think this is a Republican lean state, but it'll be really close. And also the candidate that's the front runner, Ty Masterson, who's the Senate president, is endorsed by Trump. So to your point, what we talked about earlier, it's gonna, we've got to see where the country is come November.

[John Rabinowitz]

Of course. I think with these interviews, I did one, you did the other.

[John McConnell]

Yeah, I had Ethan. I remember his story of baseball and growing up and working in D.C. he seemed like a great guy. I think I promised him a trip to see the games and horse races. So I guess I'll have to do that at some point.

[John Rabinowitz]

Cindy's story about farming, family and first to go to college. Really speaking to those roots in the community.

[Lindsay]

There are moments that define who you are and who you're becoming. And when those moments arrive, what you drive should rise to meet them. The Range Rover Sport commands attention from the very first glance. Every line, every detail engineered for impact. Inside, refinement takes over with sculpted 22 way heated seating with available massage and a 13.1 inch touchscreen that puts everything within easy reach. But the Range Rover Sport isn't just about luxury. It's about uncompromised performance, too. Delivering a powerful, agile drive that feels as confident as it looks. And with nearly endless ways to personalize, from interior finishes to wheels to unique colors and accessories, your Range Rover Sport becomes unmistakably yours. For those who expect more from every moment, there's a vehicle designed to meet it. The Range Rover Sport. Exclusive offers available now. Explore further@range rover.com the most memorable gifts aren't found. They're made. Zazzle is a custom marketplace where you pick any product. A mug, a card, a tote, a phone case, and make it personal. A photo, a name, an inside joke. The kind of gift that actually fits the person. That's what 30 million customers have been coming Back to Zazzle for over 20 years to find. Right now, save 25% on your first [e-mail] that's zazzle.com make it zamazing.

[Andy Beshear]

Next, let's move to a state that's incredibly important, not just in 26, but 28. And that's Michigan. And a lot's happened since we did our prime for 2026 episode. On it. Garland Gilchrist is their lieutenant governor. He was in a competitive field, but he decided he would drop out and run for Secretary of state, which I think was a good idea. So then we have Jocelyn Benson and Chris Swanson, the Secretary of state versus a popular sheriff. Right now it looks like she is leading that race by a decent amount though. He is a good candidate. But the big news is that there was an independent candidate. The former mayor of Detroit, Mike Duggan, who was a popular Democrat, a very effective mayor, decided he would become an independent and run. He has since dropped out. I think he was worried that he would be a spoiler. That was a good, in my opinion, a good thing to happen and it puts the winner of the Democratic primary, likely Benson, in a pretty good place.

[John Rabinowitz]

And when you go back and watch these interviews that we've got, when you look at Jocelyn and then you look at Chris, it's they're both incredible candidates. Yes. They're well spoken, they understand their message and they want to do what's right for the whole state.

[John McConnell]

John, of all our interviews of different states of candidates, this was if not the most impressive, one of the most impressive. I will tell you, anyone that can run a dmv.

[Andy Beshear]

Yes.

[John McConnell]

And still be a leader and still well liked, has a heck of a chance to be the governor.

[Andy Beshear]

Yes. I mean, Benson is so good about talking about that, about how these jobs are customer service and if everybody hates the DMV and you can turn it around, you do a good job. Now, Sheriff Swanson first has great energy.

[John McConnell]

I remember that.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Yes.

[Andy Beshear]

You can tell how much he wants to do this job and his ability as law enforcement and especially the toughest times in times of protest, to lead in a different way, to lead with folks, to march with folks, is just really impressive.

[John McConnell]

I also think these candidates, one was a marathon runner, one did Ironman.

[Andy Beshear]

They are all marathon runners.

[John McConnell]

I'm doing Old man walking at 6 in the morning and they're running 26 miles.

[John Rabinowitz]

We just have to assume Andy's building himself up to an ironman.

[Andy Beshear]

Let's next move to what is one of the most important races for the Democratic governors Association. And that's Arizona, where incumbent Katie Hobbs is going to have a tough race. But she is working incredibly hard. She's running against an election denier, Andy Biggs, which just makes the stakes that much more as close as Arizona is in presidential elections. Could you imagine if an election Denier became governor there and he's a.

[John McConnell]

He's a Trump endorsed candidate, correct?

[Andy Beshear]

Oh, he's more than just a Trump endorsed. He is the thousand percent backing Trump, including in the election denial and conspiracies.

[John McConnell]

Well, I thought that was a real impressive interview. I remember that conversation. I liked how she talked about herself as a problem solver, that she'll work across party lines to get things done. That's in the best interest of the people of Arizona.

[John Rabinowitz]

And once again was a social worker and talks to herself about using those safety nets that we have in every community. And she can speak to people.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah. She knows what it's like to struggle. She had to drive an Uber or a Lyft just to get by on top of her job. Let's watch a clip from Katie Hobbs.

[Candidate Speaker]

I am 100%, every single day focused on how I can make life better for Arizonans. My top priority always is doing what's best for Arizona. I can't speak to the three Republicans that are running, but it seems to me like they're more focused on loyalty to the president. That is over and over again how Republicans have won primaries. And that loyalty isn't always bad, but it is when it's harmful to Arizonans. And so I will work with anyone, even the president, to make life better for Arizonans. And. But I know that we've made a lot of progress. There's a lot more to do and

[John McConnell]

I'm ready to get it done. We should also mention, here's another candidate that said she did half Ironmans and is a triathlete. You're really letting us down.

[Andy Beshear]

To be clear, you all tell me that there's such thing as a half marathon, that it's just half the distance in each stretch. I think it's when you start the marathon, you get halfway in, you're like, I'm double Ironman. And you're like, this is dumb. And just walk away.

[John McConnell]

I love it. Do you want to turn to Minnesota next?

[Andy Beshear]

Let's do. Because this is fascinating in that the Democratic candidate and the next governor of Minnesota is someone we had on in a different capacity. I think in our third episode.

[John McConnell]

Yeah. One of your favorite people.

[Andy Beshear]

Yes.

[John McConnell]

Had incredible stories. Her superpower was amazing. I wish we had it as well. But listen, we have Amy Klobuchar and Kobe Lane running for the Democrats. Pretty crowded field of Republicans. Obviously, Governor Tim Walz is retiring. I would guess that Amy probably is the heavy lien in this race.

[Andy Beshear]

Oh, the heavy lien both in the primary and in the general. Listen, she's running hard. It is an election. They got to get out there and work hard. But beloved as their senator, who he had on for that. Also told one of my favorite stories about how the turkey that's pardoned in D.C. often comes from Minnesota. And one year the then governor, which she's going to step into that role, was doing a press conference before it went, it broke out, it attacked the media, it was disinvited to the White House. It lost its pardon and I think became Thanksgiving dinner.

[John McConnell]

I think we need to run that clip. If we have that clip.

[Andy Beshear]

Here is that amazing story from the next governor of Minnesota, Amy Klobuchar.

[Candidate Speaker]

But I will tell you one funny story because it involves our governor, our former Governor Dayton. He decided that he would invite me to the send off for Ted the turkey to the White House. Obama was president. I got to be there. And Ted the turkey got all excited about the lights from the media in the governor's reception area, that he charged his pen and the pen went down and he charged the press corps. Wow. And there were feathers everywhere. And then the commissioner had to kind of get him back and calm him down. And so this was hilarious. And Ted calmed down. The next day I got a call that Ted wasn't going to be allowed to be the turkey pardon. That he wasn't going to allow be allowed to spend his later days at Mount Vernon like the pardon turkey does. And that beautiful, beautiful expanse of green lawn looking over the Potomac. And so I called the University of Minnesota. I go, this isn't fair. And they said, okay, well, what's happened? If you want to know the truth is the White House has deemed Ted to be a flight risk. They don't want him anymore. And so finally, the governor called. He goes, you know what? You got to let this go. You got to let it go. Ted is going to end up as a Thanksgiving dinner, but they have two other turkeys that are going instead. And that is the sad story of the demise of Ted the turkey.

[Andy Beshear]

I had always wondered what would beat our Willie Nelson poker story on the Andy Beshear podcast. And it is definitely the turkey charging the press corps and losing, I guess

[Candidate Speaker]

his immunity from Thanksgiving ending his career.

[Andy Beshear]

Folks, that is just a little bit of Our prime for 2026 and other folks that we have had on the podcast. This is why you want to go watch former episodes. So in the future we will talk about Wisconsin that has their primary on August 11th. Hopefully we'll get Javier Becerra on at some point. The Democratic nominee from California who is a heavy favorite to be governor there. I believe we've had Oregon's Governor Tina Kotech on the podcast. Want to make sure we talk about that in the future because that is going to be a real race. Nevada we need to talk about in detail. Aaron Ford has been on the podcast. I think a couple he has for an AGM of times now and the prediction markets have him up a decent amount. My buddy Josh Green is going to run away with reelection in Hawaii.

[John McConnell]

We need to do that episode.

[John Rabinowitz]

We should.

[Andy Beshear]

On location.

[John Rabinowitz]

Yes, on location.

[Andy Beshear]

And finally, Maryland's West Moore again, one of our earliest guests that really brought a lot of energy and helped build this podcast is not just the heavy favorite. We are going to make sure he wins there. So if you like those clips, if you like all the other folks that we just talked about, make sure you visit our library either on the Sirius XM app, you can download these episodes wherever you download your podcast or they are all on YouTube where you can not only hear these candidates but see them at Andy Beshear Podcast. All we ask is that if you go there, you drop us a subscribe, you hit that button, help us build out those regular subscribers because we know we're getting the views. And now another segment of Ask Andy. We are doing this with our interns at Media Pros, which helps us produce the Andy Beshear Podcast. We're going to kick it off, tell us who you are and then give me your question.

[Media Pros Intern]

Hello, my name is Lawan Odom. I am a student at the School of Visual Arts studying for Film. And today I just wanted to come to you and ask you a question, Andy.

[Andy Beshear]

All right.

[Media Pros Intern]

So with July 4th coming up, America's reaching its 250th year anniversary and I was wondering if you had anything to say or advice for people who want to are hesitant on celebrating that event due to the current state our country's in.

[Andy Beshear]

My advice would be that love your country's potential. At least we don't have to love the current reality and we shouldn't accept the current reality. We should want a lot better. We should want a country that's accepted, accepting, that recognizes our past and the mistakes we made. The United States of America that I grew up in was one that certainly wasn't perfect, but was striving to be better. And we were taking steps, not always fast enough, but at least we were moving, that the arc was bending towards justice. So I would encourage people out there to celebrate the progress we've made, but not be accepting of the. Of the current reality. But in the end, where we are right now is tough. It's tough on a lot of people's mental health. And so what I'd always say is take care of yourself first, regardless of how that looks.

[Media Pros Intern]

Absolutely. I understand. Agree. Thank you so much. Yeah, that's very meaningful for me. Yeah, for sure. And I guess there another thing to add. Where do you see America in 50 years? What is the future that you envision?

[Andy Beshear]

Well, I hope in a much better place, and I hope back on track of the improvements that we needed to make. I have to think that our country's been through challenges in the past. When I was first governor, three months in, the pandemic hit, and I went from a crowded capital because of. I don't know if you remember back, but the previous governor had closed the Capitol to certain people, was making it really hard to get in. And I had opened those doors. Democracy and the people were coming back. And then the pandemic hit, which means we had to close everything. And on the toughest days, when I was seeing the longest death list, I'd walk out to an empty rotunda and see Lincoln. And I had to think, okay, you had it worse. I mean, we have. We've been through that. We've been through McCarthyism. And my hope is that we have that moment that everybody kind of sees and learns about in history, where we take a breath out, we say things have moved in a wrong direction, we come back together, and hopefully we move forward. So I Hope we, in 50 years, have a country where progress and a good life is possible for everyone, that the circumstances of your birth shouldn't dictate what the rest of your life was going to be about. Where people have real opportunities to improve their education, that they can afford a home, that people can grow up thinking about their potential the way that I was able to. And a country that's viewed as stable, whether you're a Democrat or Republican or an Independent, you can disagree with an issue here or there, but we were together enough that we. We're Americans first and Democrats and Republicans second, third, or fourth, to where we can feel proud of this country. All right, so I appreciate the questions. This is my podcast, so I'M going to ask them back to you. How are you feeling about the country?

[Media Pros Intern]

It's a mixed bag for me. I think there's a lot to appreciate about what we have that other countries don't. We do have freedom to, other countries don't. And I think we should value that. And we have come a long way from where we were. However, there are still lingering situations regarding voting rights and the economic state of our world and job opportunities is getting harder for a lot of people. And just health care is another issue. And so it's been kind of difficult for me to navigate those things. But I don't believe that we have to stay in that position.

[Andy Beshear]

Right.

[Media Pros Intern]

That there are ways for us collectively to pursue that life that we all want for each other in our way, respectfully. And so 50 years from now, for me, what I want America to be is a place where people can feel safe and no matter their differences, and they can always have disagreeances. Every person is going to disagree. And that's fair if you ever want to agree to be, you know, kind of boring. But I think that we should learn to not judge anybody just based off who they are, what they look like, and make that the end all, be all for just people in general, because we're all one, one planet, you know.

[Andy Beshear]

Do you feel accepted by this current federal administration?

[Media Pros Intern]

Yes and no. I think that for me, it's. It's allowed me to feel like I can belong in a sense of, you know, where I'm coming from. But I feel as though sometimes there are certain systems that kind of just put you in a corner based on your situation, and there's a little sense of a bias with anything. And especially for me, I like multiracial, so navigating my culture has been. Been something that I've been struggling with, but overcoming now. And I feel as though sometimes when I enter spaces, I don't always feel, you know, like I'm fully seen. For me, sometimes you're going to always be seen for just what you look like instead of your character. So I would hope that one day those places would just allow more breathing room and, and acceptance for those type of people.

[Andy Beshear]

And I hope you see that that judgment that you're getting from someone says a lot more about them than it does about you. That doesn't mean it's not hard. All right, tell us who you are and then give me the question.

[Media Pros Intern]

Okay. My name is Taylor Durham. I just graduated from Fern Creek High School.

[Andy Beshear]

Congratulations.

[Media Pros Intern]

Yeah. And I just turned 18 last Friday, so.

[Andy Beshear]

So, so you can vote?

[Media Pros Intern]

Yes.

[Andy Beshear]

All right. You registered?

[Media Pros Intern]

Yeah, I think so.

[Andy Beshear]

Good.

[Media Pros Intern]

Yeah.

[Andy Beshear]

Make sure you get that done.

[Media Pros Intern]

Okay. My question is. It's more like a tame one. Just.

[Andy Beshear]

Okay.

[Media Pros Intern]

Just about you. You know, my question was, you know, out of all the. You experienced a lot of Fourth of July since, like that. So I just wanted to ask, what was your favorite memory of a 4 4th of July or something that you can look back on?

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah. So you always remember the Fourth of July when you're a kid, when the sparkler is somehow magical until it comes down and burns your fingers right at the end. With all the things that go along with Fourth of July, the food and the rest. I remember my dad, who was such a professional, becoming a kid, lighting off fireworks at the time, but not letting us get anywhere close to them just in the middle of our neighborhood. I remember now being a dad. I remember in the pandemic, I took Will because the ladies wanted to do something else over. And we watched it from the balcony on the front of the Capitol in lawn chairs, and there were a bunch of people sitting below us, and we were all talking through it. There was just something nice about that. I remember different times with family and friends, but just Fourth of July is that moment where, for me, I kind of take a breath and I think about where we are and where we need to go. Now, while I like the 4th of July and the fireworks, my dog Winnie, does not. She didn't mind it at the beginning, but now when it thunders outside, she runs and hides in my closet. And so managing the dog in the Midst of the 4th of July is a challenge. What are your favorite memories from the Fourth of July?

[Media Pros Intern]

Oh, my gosh. Every Fourth of July is always something, tell you that much. But my favorite memory is when I went over my aunt's house, and it's still in Louisville. She lives in Florida now. Every. The energy was just high. You know, my whole family's there.

[Andy Beshear]

Yes, yes.

[Media Pros Intern]

And it was just something really magical. And I really felt loved when I was in there. That's one of the things I really love about Fourth of July. It's like just hanging out with family. I love family time.

[Andy Beshear]

And it doesn't seem like there's pressure in the Fourth of July with the family. Sometimes Christmas, you're supposed to be more joyous than, you know, ever before, or Thanksgiving, but the Fourth of July always seems relaxed.

[Media Pros Intern]

Exactly.

[Andy Beshear]

Do you. Do you dress up for the 4th of July? Do you wear American flag stuff all over?

[Media Pros Intern]

It really depends on the weather. Now, if it's too hot. Then I'll. I'll maybe wear, like, a tank top.

[Andy Beshear]

Okay. Does it have an American flag on it?

[Media Pros Intern]

I currently do not own any American flag.

[Andy Beshear]

Okay. Because you got to check out our last Fourth of July episode where John McConnell had American flag overalls. Overalls, exactly.

[Media Pros Intern]

What?

[Andy Beshear]

Yep. See, that's why you've got to subscribe to YouTube, because otherwise, you miss these amazing moments that will live forever. Thanks for being on the podcast.

[Media Pros Intern]

Thank you for having me.

[Andy Beshear]

Okay, we are now on intern number three for Media Pros. Tell us who you are and give us your question. My name is Alina sun, and my

[Candidate Speaker]

question for you is, do you have

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

an American historical figure that you geek over?

[Andy Beshear]

Ooh. Yes. It would make sense to say Lincoln because he's from Kentucky, but John Marshall Harlan was also from Kentucky, and he and his father were the only other father son attorneys general, other than me and my father. So John Marshall Harlan's dad's name was James, and he went from being Attorney General to one of Lincoln's U.S. attorneys. But John Marshall Harlan went on to become a Supreme Court justice and was a great dissenter in Plessy v. Ferguson. He was the first Supreme Court justice that said everyone is equal under the law, regardless of race. Coming from Kentucky, especially the way he started his life, it's this amazing arc, but I think it was also really courageous at the time. He'd been the very first and something we ought to be proud of as Kentuckians. Now also, you gotta say, FDR led us not only through the Great Depression, but also through World War II. And my grandparents met on a WPA project, so. But for FDR and his WPA, I wouldn't exist. What about you?

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

So I love, like, American history, but

[Andy Beshear]

I'm not gonna lie, I did not

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

know who those earlier people were.

[Andy Beshear]

That's okay.

[Candidate Speaker]

I didn't learn about that at school.

[Andy Beshear]

That's what the podcast is for.

[John Rabinowitz]

Yeah.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

I think I would say Hamilton.

[Andy Beshear]

Yes. From the musical, because I learned so much from that.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

And, like, they made his journey so epic.

[Andy Beshear]

Right.

[Candidate Speaker]

Made me want to just be a

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

young scholar and just.

[Andy Beshear]

Was it. Was it Alexander Hamilton in the musical that you wanted to be at BE because most of us, I think, wanted to be Lafayette.

[Candidate Speaker]

Lafayette. Yeah.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

No, it was Alexander Hamilton or Aaron Burr.

[Andy Beshear]

Okay.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

I gotta say, Lafayette is cool, though, too.

[John Rabinowitz]

Yeah.

[Andy Beshear]

I think it's the. The accent and the rap.

[Candidate Speaker]

Yeah.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Yeah.

[Andy Beshear]

Have you seen the musical? I've seen Hamilton a number of times. And here's something interesting. We're Doing history today on the Andy Beshear podcast is if they do a sequel to Hamilton, it would be in Frankfort, Kentucky, where we're filming right now. Actually, yes, because Aaron Burr was first tried for sedition in Frankfort, Kentucky. He stayed at a house that John McConnell now owns called the Love House. And the newspapers say he drank all the champagne up in Frankfurt. And do you know who represented him? Him? Who defended him in that first edition trial? It was a young lawyer named Henry Clay.

[Medical/Pharmaceutical Announcer]

Henry Clay.

[Andy Beshear]

So you think about John Adams representing the troops in the Boston Massacre, and you got another analogy, you know, later on. So I am ready, Lin Manuel Miranda, for your sequel to Hamilton. Come right here to Frankfort, Kentucky. We will blow this thing out 250 years. Think about that for a moment. Think about every generation that came before us that faced something that felt insurmountable. A revolution, a civil war, a depression, two world wars, a civil rights movement that required ordinary people to do extraordinarily brave things just to secure rights that should have never been in question. Every single one of those generations, they had a choice. They could look away or they could show up. Thankfully, they showed up. And now it's our turn. The candidates I've spoken with over these last several months, they give me real hope. I know they're going to show up for their neighbors the way every generation before us showed up for theirs. America's 250th birthday isn't just a finish line. It's a reminder of how far we've come and a call to make sure the next 250 years are worthy of the first. So get involved. Knock on doors, make the calls. Show up for the candidates who are showing up for you. And bring somebody with you. This democracy has never been a spectator sport, and right now, more than ever, it needs all of us on the field. I'm andy Beshear. Happy 250th America. Stay safe this Fourth of July. We'll see you next week.

[Lindsay]

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