Dec 27, 2024 Story by: Editor
In the wake of early November’s elections, Kentucky House Democrats have selected Pam Stevenson to lead their caucus in the upcoming legislative session. Stevenson, a representative from the 43rd House District, which spans the Louisville-Indiana border, has served in the Kentucky State House since 2021. Her election marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first Black woman to hold this leadership position.
The leadership change follows the retirement of Derrick Graham, a Democratic representative from the 57th District and the first Black man to be elected as House Leader. Graham, who has served in the Kentucky House since 2003, held the leadership role since 2023.
Expressing her gratitude after her election on November 22, Stevenson stated in a press release: “I want to thank my fellow caucus members for their support and look forward to working with them, Gov. Andy Beshear, and our legislative colleagues from across the aisle.” She added, “We may be a new leadership team, but we are as committed as ever to pursuing our timeless goals of building on the commonwealth’s many successes while better ensuring that all citizens are able to enjoy that prosperity.”
Joining Stevenson in the new leadership lineup is Rep. Al Gentry, who has represented Louisville’s 46th District since 2017. Gentry was chosen as the Minority Caucus Chair. Following his election, Gentry remarked, “I have been proud to be part of this caucus for the last eight years, and it means a lot to be selected for this new role.” He further emphasized, “Our legislative priorities have significant public support, from raising the minimum wage to providing significantly more funding for public education.”
Additionally, Lindsey Burke, who represents the 75th District, has been named the State House Minority Whip. Burke, the sole Lexington-based representative in Democratic leadership, was re-elected to her second term this November. Reflecting on her new role, Burke said, “I have dedicated most of my life to helping others, and it means so much that I now have a chance to step up and take on this important responsibility.”
These leadership changes come after the election defeat of Rep. Cherlynn Stevenson, the previous House Minority Caucus Chair from the 88th District in north Lexington, and the retirement of Rep. Rachael Roberts, the former House Minority Whip representing the 67th District.
As the new leadership takes charge, the Democratic caucus faces significant challenges, holding only 19 seats compared to the Republican majorities 80—a historic low for the party. The caucus also faced controversy when Rep. Daniel Grossberg, a Democrat from Louisville, was expelled from the party after reports surfaced in the Lexington Herald-Leader that he had sexually harassed women during his tenure. Although expelled, Grossberg was re-elected this November, leaving his role in the State House uncertain.
Stevenson, Gentry, and Burke will hold their leadership positions until the legislative session concludes in early 2027. If they choose not to run or are defeated in the 2026 elections, the party will need to elect new leaders to guide them forward. Source: The Asbury Collegian
