Kentucky Voters Decide Pardon Powers | Louisville News

Kentucky voters face a pivotal ballot decision in 2026: should the governor’s pardon power be restricted during election seasons? A proposed constitutional amendment would ban pardons and sentence commutations 60 days before and 5 weeks after elections—until the new governor takes office. Backed by a Pulitzer-winning exposé on former Gov. Matt Bevin’s controversial last-minute pardons, the measure seeks to prevent abuse, though current Gov. Andy Beshear argues better leadership—not legal limits—should be the solution. Spearheaded by Sen. Chris McDaniel and finally passing the House amid looming election stakes, this amendment is a direct response to past scandals and a chance for voters to reshape how power transitions in Kentucky’s highest office. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/22047fcad1093c89