Republican Party Of Kentucky (RPK) Takes Steve Beshear To Task, Uses Hiring Flap To Raise Funds.

MUST READ: Governor Beshear Violates Hiring Pledge

Oh, what a difference a year makes. And, Governor Steve Beshear still doesn’t get it!

One year ago today, Governor Steve Beshear had this to say about hiring practices in his administration…

Beshear unveils plans to ensure fair hiring
Governor-elect Steve Beshear used the unveiling of his new state job application Web site to showcase the deliberate effort his administration will make to avoid the hiring problems that plagued his predecessor.

"The spotlight will be on us and should be on us, because this is an area that has experienced some abuse and is an area that needs to be respected," Beshear said, adding that he will require his management team to take ethics and merit system training.

"Applicants are judged by who they are, not who they know," he said.

Beshear pledged that his administration won't review the party affiliation of applicants or consider whether a job candidate contributed to his campaign.
(Herald-Leader, 11/21/2007)

And now, one year later, his statement could not be further from the truth. The Lexington Herald-Leader has put the “spotlight” on the Governor - and many of us don’t like what we’re seeing…

Beshear pal got $20,000 raise
Gov. Steve Beshear ordered a 25 percent pay raise for a friend and campaign donor who got a state job at the Office of Homeland Security.
(Herald-Leader, 11/21/2008)

Beshear fills Homeland Security with Democratic aides, donors
Gov. Steve Beshear’s Office of Homeland Security is becoming a popular entrance to the state payroll for Democratic political activists and donors.
…
But critics say political appointees still should be qualified. They say it’s not clear Beshear’s choices have the expertise needed to safeguard Kentucky from attacks and disasters or to handle more than $17 million a year in federal homeland security grants—the stated purpose of Homeland Security.
…
“It bothers me, some of the names I see over there who are being hired. A lot of people ask, ‘Are these political payback jobs where the administration is rewarding loyalty?’" said Sen. Vernie McGaha, R-Russell Springs, a member of the Senate committee that oversees homeland security.
(Herald-Leader, 11/18/08)

And, the list goes on and on…

Ex-Patton aide Ross gets state job - had been charged with campaign finance violations in 1998
(Herald-Leader, 8/1/2008)

Beshear returns Dem fund-raiser to state payroll
(Herald-Leader, 7/2/2008)

Jennifer Chandler, Bell County Democratic Party chairman among appointees to agency
(Herald-Leader, 1/17/2008)

Beshear fires 4 on PSC staff But Authority to Do So in Question No Replacements Named
(Herald-Leader, 1/8/2008)


Help the Republican Party of Kentucky keep the spotlight on Governor Steve Beshear.

Click here to donate $10, $25 or $100 using your credit or debit card.

This website also allows you to give a recurring, monthly contribution. I challenge you to pledge at least $10 a month for 12 months. It is an easy and budget friendly way to show your support and help us hold Governor Steve Beshear accountable!

You can also mail checks to: Republican Party of Kentucky; PO Box 1068; Frankfort, Ky. 40602.