By Tony McVeigh
Frankfort – Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear says he's been "energized" by his first three years in the state's highest office. In year-end interviews with reporters, including Kentucky Public Radio's Tony McVeigh, Beshear is assessing his gubernatorial tenure.
In a wide-ranging interview, touching on issues from furloughs to his latest economic development trip to India, Gov. Beshear is still hoping to win passage of expanded gambling before he leaves office.
"I have not lessened my commitment to do something that will get our horse industry on an even playing field again with all of those other states we're competing with who right now have access to a lot more revenue because of expanded gaming of some type."
Beshear is proud of his administration's efforts to keep Kentucky's budget balanced in tough economic times, without draconian cuts to education, public safety and health services. And says he continues to work hard to bring new jobs to the state. Beshear is already seeking a second term, with Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson as his running mate.