25 to watch in 2025: A political star that keeps rising in GOP-dominated Kentucky

Editor’s note: The Herald-Leader is profiling 25 individuals we predict will make news in 2025.

We’re watching: Kelsey Coots, co-founded of Blue Dot Consulting.

Why’s she someone to watch in 2025: Coots is co-founder with her husband Taylor Coots of Louisville-based Blue Dot Consulting. She was part of the team that helped defeat Amendment 2 in 2022, which would have banned abortion in the Constitution.

Last year, she ran the campaign against another Amendment 2, which would have changed the state constitution to allow public school funding to go to private schools. That Amendment 2 failed by 30 points, putting Coots firmly on the map for top notch political organizing.

What she says about 2025: Coots agreed that 2025 would be getting ready for the next political battles. “In 2025, I’m going to continue to build coalitions, train new organizers and strategize and fight alongside partners focused on a pro-democracy agenda,” Coots said. “This work is a mission, and there is always a next fight to build a Kentucky that works for all.”

What others say about Coots: “Kelsey had a great 2024, and I personally enjoyed being in the studio with her on Primary Election Night on KET,” said Trey Grayson, former Secretary of State. “While 2025 is an ‘off year’ for elections, a lot of activity will take place to prepare for the 2026 election cycle. I suspect Kelsey’s talents will be in high demand.”