AGP Executive Report

McConnell Health Update: EMS dispatch audio says Sen. Mitch McConnell was found “unconscious” at his Washington, D.C., home on June 14, with staff still sharing limited details about his condition. Trial Status: Thomas Birl, accused in a 2021 Richmond couple killing and apartment fire, has been found competent to stand trial. Transportation & Local Impacts: KYTC says Downing Road in Calloway County reopened after a months-long bridge rehab; Cave-in-Rock Ferry paused service after a funding standoff, with KYTC urging travelers to use alternate routes. Federal Money for Western Kentucky: Rep. James Comer announced a $24M BUILD grant to extend Paducah’s Riverport West Project. Public Safety: McCracken County meth investigations led to 6 arrests and more than 275 grams seized. Education Watch: A Kentucky auditor’s special examination of JCPS finds students falling behind and teachers leaving amid academic and financial strain. Interim Session in Frankfort: Lawmakers met on education and transportation issues, including Pell Grant updates and work-zone safety, as committees gear up for the 2027 session.

Flood Recovery: Gov. Andy Beshear says Kentucky is past the worst of last weekend’s deadly storms, with four deaths confirmed and flash flooding easing, though some roads and bridges remain closed for repairs. Extreme Heat Safety: The National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Warning statewide through Friday night, with cooling centers opening and officials urging hydration, lighter clothing, and limiting outdoor work during peak heat. Emergency Response: Letcher County is improving ambulance coverage by stationing a Neon Fire and Rescue unit at the Letcher Volunteer Fire Department to speed response times in the lower end of the county. Local Education Boost: Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College launched the Promise Scholars Program, a summer bridge for Letcher County Central High School graduates to prepare for college. State Politics & Civics: A UK civics center mandate tied to school-board legislation is drawing criticism for being added late without hearings or public input. Economy & Agriculture: Kentucky’s overdose-death declines continue for a fourth straight year as Beshear highlights treatment and Narcan efforts, while farmers and agribusiness also look to rising canola demand for renewable fuels. Sports: Kentucky’s Cole McClean and Noah Spalding faced off in a high school pitchers’ duel, and Kentucky’s Golden Tempo is being commemorated at the Kentucky Derby Museum after the Derby win.

Flood Response: Gov. Andy Beshear says Kentucky’s deadly flooding has killed four and is moving from search-and-rescue into damage assessments, with more local emergencies declared and an emergency order allowing pharmacy refills in impacted areas. Extreme Heat: A Pike County extreme heat warning runs through July 2, with heat index values up to 107; health officials urge residents to watch for heat illness. Public Safety & Crime: A former Murray detective, Justin Swope, was indicted on dozens of child sex charges involving a minor; separately, an Elizabethtown man faces vehicular homicide after a DUI-linked crash that led to a 15-year-old’s drowning. State Politics: Kentucky lawmakers approved a Center of American Civics at UK, aimed at teaching nonpartisan civics and government structures. Economy & Community: Kentucky tourism hit a record 2025 with $14.6B in economic impact and four straight years of growth; Washington County’s unemployment rate stayed steady at 3.7% in April. Local Notes: RiverLink tolls on the Ohio River bridges rise 3.8% July 1; Highlands residents push a petition to limit alcohol sales along Bardstown Road.

Flood Response & Accountability: Gov. Andy Beshear’s office said four people died in Kentucky flooding, but a Jackson County coroner later identified one death as a vehicle crash not flood-related, underscoring confusion as communities assess damage. Extreme Heat Watch: The National Weather Service issued heat advisories and extreme heat alerts across parts of Kentucky and the broader Eastern U.S., warning of dangerous heat stress with limited overnight relief. Medicaid Fight at the Capitol: A Georgetown mother with a disabled son pushed back against proposed Medicaid reimbursement cuts tied to the Lee Specialty Clinic, arguing the changes would disrupt critical care. Local Government & Data Centers: Scott County extended a data center moratorium through the end of 2026 while Georgetown planning staff draft an ordinance to set siting rules. Energy & Jobs: Waaree Solar Americas secured a 236.22 MW utility-scale solar module supply contract for a Flemingsburg project, using modules manufactured in Texas. Sports & Community: Churchill Downs-backed “Gallop for Good” highlights retired racehorse aftercare, while Kentucky’s drive-in movie era keeps shrinking to just seven remaining theaters.

Tragic Recovery in Carter County: A GoFundMe for Marly Kinney, 19, of Ashland—found dead at Grayson Lake after a days-long search—has topped $10,000 as Kentucky Fish and Wildlife says her cause of death is still pending. Kentucky State Police charged Cameron Conley, 23, with operating a boat while intoxicated; his breath test showed a BAC of 0.137. Public Safety: Kentucky is under a heat warning through Thursday, with officials urging Kentuckians to limit time outside, hydrate, and watch for heat illness. SNAP Fight in Court: The DOJ sued Kentucky and three other states over alleged refusal to turn over SNAP applicant data to the USDA, seeking an injunction tied to fraud and improper payments. Local News & Crime: Two separate Lyon County pursuit incidents led to arrests, including a driver charged after a crash during a fleeing stop. Community & Health: Blood Assurance is offering $40 e-gift cards to donors during a late-June/early-July push as local supplies run low. Church Controversy: A viral Lexington church “devil skit” from a Bible school has reignited debate over faith, violence, and what kids should see.

Deadly Flooding in Kentucky: Gov. Andy Beshear declared a statewide emergency after torrential rain triggered catastrophic flash floods, killing at least four people in central and eastern Kentucky and forcing dozens of water rescues while officials warned more storms could worsen conditions. Heat Alert After the Storms: As flooding rains move out, the Tri-State heads into a dangerous stretch of summer heat and humidity, with heat advisories and heat index values pushing toward triple digits. Churchill Downs Racing: Magnitude, the Dubai World Cup winner, won the Grade I Stephen Foster at Churchill Downs, holding off a field that included a Kentucky Derby winner and a Breeders’ Cup Classic winner. Kentucky Football Recruiting: Kentucky coach Will Stein’s 2027 class continues to take shape, highlighted by the commitment of five-star QB Jake Nawrot and other four-star additions. Legal Update: A federal judge rejected a bid to impose a $700,000 judgment in a lawsuit involving a former Kentucky State Police trooper accused of assaulting a handcuffed arrestee.

Flood Disaster Response: Kentucky’s deadly flash-flood weekend left at least 4 people dead, with Gov. Andy Beshear declaring a statewide emergency and seeking federal disaster aid as rain moved out but recovery ramps up. Missing Person Update: The body of 19-year-old Marly Kinney of Ashland was recovered from Grayson Lake in Carter County after a days-long search; her death is under investigation. Crash & DUI Probe: Kentucky State Police are investigating a Hardin County DUI crash where a juvenile died after a car overturned into a flooded creek; the driver, David Rhodes, faces DUI and assault charges. Weather Shift: Forecasters say the storm pattern is ending, but hot and humid conditions are moving in, bringing a new set of risks for Kentuckians. Federal Facilities Backlog: A report highlights long-running repair delays in federal buildings, including leaks, broken elevators, and other hazards tied to a massive maintenance backlog. Sports & Local Interest: Churchill Downs’ Stephen Foster Stakes winner Magnitude is emerging as an early Breeders’ Cup Classic favorite, while Kentucky basketball forward Justin McBride says joining the Wildcats is a “dream come true.”

Flood Emergency: Kentucky is reeling after flash flooding from severe storms killed four people, with Gov. Andy Beshear declaring a statewide state of emergency as more heavy rain was expected; officials reported three deaths in Madison County and one in Jackson County, with rescues and road closures ongoing. Public Safety Update: Separate reporting says serious crime in Kentucky fell for a second straight year in 2025, with Category A crime down 8.14% from 2024 and major categories including drug offenses and homicides showing steep declines. Community & Kids: The Owensboro Family YMCA earned Kentucky’s highest 5-star child care rating after boosting its program from one star to five over four years and expanding care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Local Culture: WYES-PBS held its Derby-themed “Juleps & Generosity” gala to raise support for educational media, leaning into Kentucky Derby traditions with sponsors and attendees in Derby-inspired attire. Weather Watch: Forecasters also flagged a broader flood risk across the Ohio Valley, including a moderate risk corridor stretching from Louisville toward Bowling Green and Evansville.

Flood Emergency: Gov. Andy Beshear declared a statewide state of emergency as flash flooding from thunderstorms killed at least four Kentuckians, with three deaths reported in Madison County and one in Jackson County; officials warned of up to 7 inches of rain, urged people to avoid driving after dark, and said multiple rescues were underway while roads were flooded and some state roads were out of commission. Local Impacts: In Bullitt County, evacuations were ordered after a landslide near a dam embankment on Cedar Springs Drive in Lebanon Junction; in Bracken County, the AA Highway (KY 9) was blocked in both directions after a crash. Health & Community: Monroe County School District named Emmanuel “Manny” Gomez Santa as director of food services. In Lexington, free dental screenings helped kindergarten-bound students get a head start on oral health. Medicaid Pressure: The Marshall County Exceptional Center says Medicaid reimbursement cuts starting Aug. 1 are already straining budgets, with leaders warning the “economic times are tough for everybody” reality is hitting both families and providers. Sports: Frankfort’s Lanson Orndorf capped a dominant senior baseball run by winning the John Lowery Award in West Virginia.

High School Sports: Frankfort’s Lanson Orndorf capped a dominant senior run with the 2026 Lowery Award, after complete-game wins in the state quarterfinals and Class AA title game. Recruiting: Kentucky missed out on 2027 OT Caden Moss, who committed to Ohio State over the Wildcats and other finalists. WWE: Sami Zayn is set for a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship at Night of Champions, calling it a potential “cultural moment.” Public Safety/Weather: Rain and storms are expected to disrupt Saturday plans, with downpours hitting parts of Northern Kentucky and nearby areas. Crime Update: Kentucky State Police reports serious crime and homicide rates declined in 2025, though some categories rose. Eastern Kentucky Water: Federal funds totaling more than $6 million are headed to Knott, Perry and Wolfe counties for water and wastewater upgrades. Environment: The Nature Conservancy acquired 1,700+ acres in Eastern Kentucky to protect a key Appalachian corridor.

Flood Watch & Storm Timing: Louisville-area residents are bracing for rounds of thunderstorms through June 26 into June 27, with flash flooding possible in localized spots and heavier totals in some areas. Road & Bridge Updates: KYTC paused a plan to reduce the Clark Memorial Bridge to three lanes after inspectors found more sidewalk/structural damage, while U.S. 25E in Laurel County will shift to one lane starting June 29 for repairs. Public Safety: Kentucky’s 2025 Crime in Kentucky report says serious crime dropped more than 8% statewide, and West Liberty police are using a training simulator to prep for high-stress calls. Student Loan Change: The Biden-era SAVE plan ends July 1, leaving Kentucky borrowers with fewer repayment options. Local Economy & Jobs: Space Tango is expanding its Lexington operations with a nearly $7.5 million investment and 25 new jobs. Community & Culture: UK announced its 2026 Athletics Hall of Fame class, and Special Olympics USA Games medals are returning to southcentral Kentucky.

Local Economy & Industry: Warren County’s fiscal court approved new data center rules, limiting sites to industrial zones, setting distance buffers from homes, requiring closed-loop cooling, and adding noise, aesthetics, and decommissioning requirements. State Politics: Gov. Andy Beshear says Ford is weighing a possible $2 billion expansion at the Louisville Truck Plant, including development of nearby land, though no final decision is set. Business & Manufacturing: Dow announced about $100 million in targeted investments through 2027, including expanded liquid silicone rubber production in Carrollton, Kentucky, and upgrades for advanced electronics materials. Public Safety & Weather: Severe storm alerts are in effect with heavy rain and strong storms Friday, with flood risk across parts of Kentucky and nearby states. Sports & Community: UofL sports information director Kenny Klein died at 66, prompting tributes across college athletics; and Auburn players Keyshawn Hall and KeShawn Murphy signed NBA UDFA deals after the draft. Culture & History: A Louisville Pride-related story revisits a 1970 marriage license application that helped shape early queer legal history in Kentucky.

OSHA Funding Fight: A new push in Washington urges the Senate to reject proposed OSHA cuts for FY2027, warning a 7.5% drop would endanger workers. Louisville Clinic Funding: Gov. Andy Beshear says he’s shifting money to keep Louisville’s Lee Specialty Clinic funded for one year after major downsizing, calling it a temporary “Band-Aid” while patients and advocates press for permanent support. One Park Deal: Kentucky’s economic development authority approved $62M in state tax financing for Louisville’s $1.4B One Park project near Cherokee Park, clearing the way for apartments, a hotel, retail, and a parking garage. Prison Drone Smuggling: Federal prosecutors say a drone operation tied to two Lexington federal prisons smuggled contraband into 10 facilities across eight states, including Kentucky. Kentucky Recruiting: Kentucky landed four-star linebacker Sean Fox, and the Wildcats also added more talent as the 2027 class continues to build. Local News & Safety: Henry County schools approved $1,000 stipends for full-time employees; Graves County reported two injuries in a crash; KSP is taking applications for Cadet Class 108 with a $71,000 starting salary.

War Powers Rift in Washington: Senate Republicans held a late-night redo vote on Iran war powers after President Trump berated GOP senators over their earlier opposition, with Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul voting present and Sen. Bill Cassidy flipping to vote against the new measure. Frankfort Watch: With nearly 200 Kentucky laws set to take effect July 15, legislators are already looking ahead to what’s still unresolved from this session. Kentucky Politics Meets Federal Courts: The CFTC sued Kentucky over its crackdown on prediction markets, arguing federal regulators have exclusive authority. Local Growth & Zoning: Northern Kentucky unveiled a 934-mile regional trails plan connecting Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties. Public Safety & Health: Kentucky fireworks rules vary by city, and health reporting highlights rising patient portal messaging loads for clinicians. Sports & Community: Kentucky football is turning to new offensive leadership under Will Stein, while Kentucky’s Otega Oweh was drafted by the Thunder in the NBA’s second round.

Lee Specialty Clinic Fight: Hundreds of patients, families, and advocates packed the Kentucky Capitol Annex to urge lawmakers to reverse $4.5 million in cuts threatening Lee Specialty Clinic in Louisville, which serves about 1,300 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and says it could lose most staff and discharge patients. Prediction Markets Clash: The federal CFTC is suing Kentucky over state efforts to rein in Kalshi and Polymarket, adding to a broader fight over whether Washington or Frankfort has the final say on prediction-market rules. Soil Research: Kentucky State University published findings in Frontiers in Agronomy showing pine sawdust biochar can help buffer acidic soils and build soil carbon for soybean growers over time. Veterans/Community: The Mayfield Rotary Club installed its new president and highlighted major local giving, including disaster recovery support and scholarships. Public Safety: A Graves County crash sent two people to hospitals after a Subaru rear-ended a waste management truck stopped with emergency lights. Health Watch: Tick-borne illnesses are rising in Kentucky, with doctors warning about symptoms of Lyme disease and Alpha-gal after tick bites.

Housing Policy: Congress passed the bipartisan “21st Century ROAD to Housing Act,” but 32 House Republicans and five Senate Republicans voted against it, sending the bill to President Trump’s desk; it aims to boost supply, curb investor activity, and expand housing finance amid a severe national shortage. Frankfort & State Government: Kentucky State Treasurer Mark Metcalf’s unclaimed property road show returned a record $112 million to residents since taking office, with $45 million owed to Fayette County alone, as staff helped people search claims in Lexington. Data Centers & Courts: July 20 hearings are set in Simpson and Barren counties over data center lawsuits—TenKey LandCo challenges Simpson’s conditional-use ordinance, while Kentucky Industrial Alliance fights Cave City’s 12-month moratorium. Weather & Safety: The NWS confirmed at least 13 tornadoes from Sunday’s Tri-State storms, with additional Kentucky tornadoes reported, and officials are pushing BearWise steps as black bear sightings rise in eastern Kentucky. Sports: Corbin’s Malachi Brown committed to Kentucky, and the NBA Draft opened with AJ Dybantsa going No. 1 to the Wizards. Politics: The U.S. Senate approved a war powers resolution targeting Iran in a rebuke to Trump, 50-48, drawing sharp criticism from the president.