Blevins for Senate
Her opponent in the Republican primary said having state Sen. Alice Forgy Kerr in the General Assembly is like having "an empty seat."
Her opponent in the general election puts it in different terms, but reaches the same general conclusion. Kerr, Democrat Don Blevins says, just gives Senate President David Williams a second vote on all the issues.
Because she consistently dances to Williams' tune, Fayette County's 12th Senate District hasn't had a real — i.e., independent — voice in the Senate at any time during Kerr's three terms in office. District voters can and should rectify that Nov. 2.
As a former member of the Urban County Council and longtime county clerk, Blevins built a solid record of serving the people of Fayette County. And far more than Kerr, he understands and appreciates what makes the county and Bluegrass region special.
For instance, Blevins knows the county's entire planning and zoning scheme is predicated on protecting the horse industry, the green space provided by its farms and the way the combination of the two drive the region's tourism industry.
So, Blevins supports expanded gambling at racetracks — such as the slots bill Kerr voted to kill in 2009 — as a means of helping Kentucky racing compete with the supplemented purses in "racino" states.
But Blevins is far from a one-issue candidate. He says it's time for Kentucky to quit patting itself on the back for the education reforms of the 1990s and revisit the issue with an eye toward addressing the funding slippage that has occurred and rethinking the way we train the state's youth for jobs.
He also argues correctly that Kentucky needs to replace its antiquated tax system with one that fits a 21st century economy. Otherwise, state government will remain locked in an endless cycle of revenue shortfalls and cuts in services.
Kerr did not respond to an interview request. But even if she had, it wouldn't change the fact that voters in the 12th District would be wise to fill the "empty seat" in the Senate with someone who will cast votes for them rather than for David Williams.
Don Blevins is that person.
This story was originally published October 12, 2010 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Blevins for Senate ."