Kentucky Democrats Sell Headquarters, Shift Focus Downtown
The Kentucky Democratic Party (KDP) has completed the sale of its longstanding headquarters located near Interstate 64 in Frankfort. The sale, finalized on December 5, 2023, was made to Means Drive of Nicholasville for a total of $540,000, according to records from the Franklin County property valuation administrator. The KDP plans to relocate to a new office on Ann Street in downtown Frankfort, aiming to enhance accessibility for lawmakers, advocates, and journalists working at the state Capitol.
This transition marks a significant change for the KDP, which has experienced a decline in political influence over recent decades. The party originally purchased the former headquarters in 1973 for just $25,000. The building was named in honor of former U.S. Senator Wendell H. Ford, who served until 1999 and was governor at the time the property was acquired.
In contrast, the Republican Party of Kentucky has noted the Democrats’ move as a further indication of their diminishing presence in state politics. Following the completion of an expansion of their headquarters in November, Republican spokesperson Adam Hope commented on the situation, stating, “Since Governor Andy Beshear took office, Kentucky Republicans have flipped voter registration, expanded our supermajorities, and now hold nearly every federal and constitutional office.”
The decline of the KDP began around the turn of the 21st century when Republican candidates started consistently winning the state’s electoral votes in presidential elections, leading to a Republican majority in both the state House and Senate. The party’s loss of influence was echoed in recent Republican victories in various elections across the state.
In defense of their strategy, KDP Executive Director Morgan Eaves countered the criticisms from the Republican Party, asserting that the GOP should focus on pressing issues affecting Kentuckians. “The Republican Party of Kentucky should be more concerned about Kentuckians losing jobs, food, and health care as a result of the GOP-backed federal budget than they are about KDP headquarters,” Eaves remarked. She emphasized that the party has not seen any Republican statements addressing these critical issues in quite some time.
As the KDP prepares for this new chapter in a more centralized location, it hopes to revitalize its efforts and better engage with constituents and policymakers alike. The move reflects an ongoing effort to reposition the party in a changing political landscape, while the Republicans continue to assert their dominance in Kentucky politics.
