Senate President David Williams

Will the enduring popularity of former UK basketball star and Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer affect the gubernatorial aspirations of Farmer’s…

Kentucky Senate President David Williams, R-Burkesville, would consider a judicial appointment if Governor Steve Beshear offered the position, a spokesperson confirmed. Rumors have been swirling in Frankfort that Beshear is planning to offer his bitter rival Williams, who is a trial lawyer, the open circuit court seat in his southern Kentucky district. The seat was left vacant due to the death of Judge Eddie Lovelace last month. "If there is an appointment offer, Sen. Williams will consider it," says Senate GOP spokeswoman Lourdes Báez-Schrader. Earlier this week, Kentucky Public Radio's Kenny Colston reported that Senate Republicans have already created a line of succession plan if Williams were to resign. A four-member nominating panel was appointed Thursday, and that group will vet candidates and send Beshear three names to consider. The nominating commission members are Helena Pitcock, Steve Morgan, Gary Lee and Jarrett Stephens.