Kentucky’s Republican auditor, Allison Ball, this week released a report flagging concerns about spending within the state’s executive branch, headed by Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear. Ball is as well considering a run for president in 2028.
Concerns Over Executive Branch Spending
Ball issued a report earlier this month outlining spending by the executive branch in fiscal year 2025, identifying expenditures she believes demonstrate extravagant use of tax dollars. The report noted $39 million in spending by the executive branch’s advertising arms, over $7 million in out-of-state travel, over $23 million on in-state travel, and over $16 million in trainings, conferences, food, and trade shows.
Specific expenditures flagged in the report include $183,575.87 in out-of-state travel costs, including $7,632.07 for a limousine in Germany, a $17,012.73 dinner at a Kentucky distillery, and $360,000 for a two-day conference attended by 75 people within the Commonwealth. Ball also noted approximately $338,000 spent on events for VIPs during the Kentucky Derby.
“We saw some really excessive, really worrying and questionable expenditures,” Ball told Fox News Digital. She categorized much of the spending as “luxury items.”
Beshear’s Response
Beshear’s office did not respond to requests for comment. However, Beshear recently told local media that his office was not asked questions about the spending data before the report was issued, stating, “All they did was take lines, and they didn’t ask questions, because if they had gotten the answers, they couldn’t have done the political attack that it was.” Ball responded by saying It’s “no surprise” when elected officials push back on reports like hers, but that her job is about transparency.
Looking Ahead
The report could prompt further scrutiny of the governor’s spending by the Kentucky General Assembly. Lawmakers may seek to amend the state budget to restrict certain types of expenditures. Given Beshear’s consideration of a 2028 presidential run, the report could also become a point of contention in national political discourse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific expenditures raised concerns in the auditor’s report?
The report highlighted $183,575.87 in out-of-state travel costs, including $7,632.07 for a limousine in Germany, a $17,012.73 dinner at a Kentucky distillery, and $360,000 for a two-day conference.
How did Gov. Beshear respond to the auditor’s report?
Beshear stated that his office was not asked questions about the spending data before the report was issued and characterized the report as a “political attack.”
Is Gov. Beshear considering a run for president?
Yes, Gov. Beshear told CNN last summer that he was weighing a 2028 presidential bid and, in a recent interview, stated he will make a final decision when his term as governor ends in late 2017.
How might scrutiny of government spending impact public trust and accountability?
