Our government and politics coverage
Gov & Politics
We cover the laws, courts, elections and government decisions that shape LGBTQ+ life in Kentucky, from Frankfort and Washington to city councils and school boards. We explain what is happening, who it affects and what you can do about it, because the people most affected by these decisions are too often the last to hear about them.
Featured and latest government and politics stories
LatestTuesday was a big night for Kentucky and for this little newsroomQueer Kentucky executive director Missy Spears on election night 2026, live AP results in our new app, and what's next as we turn toward the General Assembly.By Missy Spears · Nov 5, 2026
“We Don’t Need Allies That Are Going to Wave a Flag”: A Trans Leader on What Real Support Looks LikeBy Nyla Davies · Nov 5, 2026- Live Updates: Election Night 2026 in Queer KentuckyBy Alejandra O'Connell-Domenech · Nov 3, 2026
These 12 local offices shape your daily life in Kentucky. Here’s what each one doesBy Dahlia Ghabour · Nov 2, 2026
What does a city council or city commission do in Kentucky?By Terrance Sullivan · Oct 30, 2026- Get Queer Kentucky in your inboxOur free newsletter, with the stories queer Kentuckians need.Sign up free
Queer Kentucky Votes
Get ready to vote
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Everything LGBTQ+ Kentuckians need is in one place: deadlines, what is on your ballot and where the candidates stand.
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Courts and civil liberties
Policing, surveillance, protest rights and the courts.
Kentucky Cities Split Over Flock Cameras as Privacy Concerns Clash With Crime-Fighting GoalsBy Mary Callaway LeBus · Oct 27, 2026
For LGBTQ+ Kentuckians Already Wary of Police, Flock Cameras Raise New Surveillance FearsBy Pat LaFleur · Oct 25, 2026
Flock cameras in Kentucky: How license plate readers get approved and how you can track themBy Pat LaFleur · Oct 22, 2026
Roebling Bridge protester arrested in court on felony riot chargeBy Community News · Oct 5, 2026
Western Kentucky’s LGBTQ+ Crisis: The Most Harm, the Least ProtectionBy Sarah Wheatley · Sep 9, 2026
Elections
What does a county judge/executive do in Kentucky?By Terrance Sullivan · Oct 30, 2026
What do state representatives and state senators do in Kentucky?By Terrance Sullivan · Oct 30, 2026
What does a school board do in Kentucky?By Terrance Sullivan · Oct 29, 2026
Meet the Candidates: Andy Barr, Charles Booker Battle for Mitch McConnell’s U.S. Senate SeatBy Bie Turner · Oct 28, 2026
Queer Kentucky Votes: deadlines, ballots and our voter guide
Local government
Where do the candidates for Louisville mayor stand on LGBTQ+ issues?By Alejandra O'Connell-Domenech · Oct 27, 2026
Northern Kentucky’s LGBTQ+ Paradox: Legal Protections at Home Contend with Restrictions at the Statehouse(s)By Sarah Wheatley · Oct 23, 2026
It’s a Pause, Not a Ban: Liz Sheehan on Lexington’s Data Center MoratoriumBy Samuel Hicks · Oct 1, 2026
The Statehouse
Kentucky’s U.S. Senate and legislative races: What LGBTQ+ voters should knowBy Sarah Wheatley · Oct 28, 2026
What is the state constitutional amendment Kentucky voters will decide on this November?By Alejandra O'Connell-Domenech · Oct 26, 2026
Trans Kentuckians Are Staying Home. The Data Says Community Is What Helps.By Jules Crawley · Oct 15, 2026
What Washington is doing and what it means for Kentucky.Federal
Federal Cuts “Handcuffed” BIPOC Harm Reduction in Kentucky. Communities Are Stepping Up.By Nick Fulton · Oct 2, 2026
Beshear’s National Rise Could Mean A Less Hands-On Approach at HomeBy Alejandra O'Connell-Domenech · Aug 27, 2026
Kentucky’s 6th Congressional District Is Finally Competitive. What LGBTQ+ Voters Need to Know.By Nick Fulton · Aug 18, 2026
50 Days, 50 Missed Votes: How McConnell’s Absence Is Stalling Kentucky’s PrioritiesBy Alejandra O'Connell-Domenech · Aug 9, 2026
Plain-language explainers on how Kentucky government works and how to make your voice heard.Know how it works
What is a shell bill? And other sneaky ways Kentucky Lawmakers pass legislation.
How a Bill Becomes a Law in Kentucky: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Legislative Process
WTF is the interim session? What to know about why folks are heading back to Frankfort — and you should too.
LGBTQ+ allies, advocates and organizations to follow in Kentucky’s General Assembly
Make your voice heard
- Check your registration and find your ballot with Queer Kentucky Votes
- Follow the 2026 bills that affect LGBTQ+ Kentuckians
- Find and contact your state legislators
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What’s next
The 2027 Kentucky General Assembly convenes
Jan. 5
Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027. It is a short 30-day session.
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