Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear’s Stance on Tariffs and Faith

In Kentucky, bluegrass music and bourbon are treasured traditions. However, recent discussions at the Kentucky Distillers’ Association meeting in Louisville shifted focus to President Trump’s tariff policies and the trade conflict with Canada.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, nearing 49 years old, addressed these issues, advocating for tariff reductions. He mentioned that bourbon exports to Canada have dropped by 85% due to the ongoing trade disputes, attributing this decline to presidential insults toward Canada.

Beshear’s new memoir, “Go and Do Likewise: How We Heal a Broken Country,” quotes Jesus urging people to act like the Good Samaritan. This publication places Beshear in the 2028 presidential conversation. The memoir, available from St. Martin’s Press, emphasizes faith and political engagement.

Beshear believes Democrats need to engage more with people of faith. He references the biblical story of the miracle of the fishes and loaves, pointing out its lesson in providing for others. He criticizes former President Trump’s attempt to cut SNAP benefits during a federal shutdown, viewing it as un-Christian.

Highlighting the importance of plain communication, Beshear urges Democrats to speak more naturally. He argues that terms like “food insecurity” might lack the emotional impact conveyed by “hunger.” Beshear’s political success in a conservative state suggests that Democrats can win in the South.

Although his father, Steve Beshear, also served as governor, Andy Beshear downplays claims of nepotism. He jokes about the legal work he performed for his father, emphasizing his independence and experience.

Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors’ Association, plans to decide on running in 2028 after the midterms and consulting his family. Currently, he critiques possible GOP contender, Vice President J.D. Vance, for using faith to criticize and demean rather than uplift.

With appearances at political events like Jim Clyburn’s fish fry in South Carolina, Beshear signals readiness for a national platform. In his book, he promotes “The Great American Reset,” encouraging kindness and reducing judgment toward fellow citizens amidst challenging times.

“Go and Do Likewise” is available in Hardcover, eBook, and Audio formats from September 22 through platforms such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop.org.