By Phillip Bailey/KPR
Frankfort, KY – Republican David Williams and independent Gatewood Galbraith will square off at a gubernatorial debate on KET tonight focusing on education. Democratic incumbent Steve Beshear's decision to skip the forum has raised eyebrows about his campaign strategy.
Beshear's supporters say he has a track record of supporting public schools and engages voters on education while on the campaign trail. The strategy of avoiding his opponents at forums, however, hasn't pleased every education advocate.
Bluegrass Institute President and CEO Phil Moffett ran for governor in the Republican primary. He says he looks forward to improving education in the state, but that Beshear is afraid to discuss his views publicly.
"I think Governor Beshear's record shows a support of teacher's unions, not of the students. The students still languish; they continue to fall farther behind. I think Governor Beshear has a shameful record and I don't blame him for not showing up, he has nothing and no solid ground to defense his positions on," he says.
Beshear has agreed to appear on KET's program on October 31 for a general discussion.
The hour-long education debate airs tonight at 8 p.m. eastern/7 p.m. central.