OUR VIEW: Wrangle over gambling is in the way

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September 6, 2009

Staff report The Glasgow Daily Times Sun Sep 06, 2009, 08:03 AM CDT

GLASGOW — Gov. Steve Beshear is playing political hardball. He’s doing all he can to rid republicans from the state Senate in a bid to legalize either slot machines or casino-style gambling at racetracks throughout the commonwealth.

The governor is using his power and influence to try and impact elections for Senate seats and when possible to find state jobs for Senate Republicans that remove them as obstacles toward his goal. These actions go against Beshear’s promises when campaigning to work with both parties and to seek compromises that will be good for all Kentuckians.

Sen. David Williams, R-Burkesville, has accused Beshear of “poisoning” the state political atmosphere through his actions.

While the Daily Times cannot support the Governor’s attempt to remove Republican state senators from their offices by getting them jobs outside of the General Assembly, Beshear is not the only one who has been using hemlock as a means for political gain. Senator Williams equally shares in the responsibility for the increasing toxic situation in Frankfort.

Williams, through his power as senate majority leader, has consistently killed any chance of passing expanded gambling in any form or even having it brought before the public for a vote through a referendum. Williams has used Senate committee leaders, appointed and loyal to Williams, to ensure that any bill that would expand gaming in Kentucky is never brought to the full senate.

The state House has been willing to provide compromise bills with even some House Republicans voting in favor of gaming.

In this case, Williams’ attack on Beshear is simply the pot calling the kettle black.

When Gov. Beshear first came into office, he stated his goal was to allow a public referendum that would give Kentuckians a chance to make a decision about expanding gambling at Kentucky horse tracks, but now that initial goal has faded into a case of win at all costs politics.

The residents of Kentucky deserve better than the current political fighting between Beshear and Williams. How can Beshear or Williams effectively legislate for the people of Kentucky, while harping about who is the dirtier politician? From our view, both have shown great ability to sling mud, but what we now seek is their showing an ability to lead.

Gambling has held up other issues in state government long enough. It’s time for Kentucky’s leaders to stop fighting amongst themselves and work harder for those who they represent.

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