Split Among Kentucky Democrats?
Democrats concerned about a bloody primary fight in the Kentucky Senate race may now extend their concern to the 2011 gubernatorial race. Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo is running for the Senate seat being vacated by retiring Sen. Jim Bunning (R). State law dictates that in order to start raising money for his re-election campaign, Gov. Steve Beshear had to choose a new running mate, and he did so -- Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson.
Per the Lexington Herald Leader, Mongiardo was allegedly captured on audio complaining about his former running mate's efforts to fundraise for himself when Mongiardo himself needs to collect as many dollars as he can. Beshear has endorsed Mongiardo, but you have to wonder about the level of support after listening to this.
More from the Herald Leader:
Mongiardo is heard saying he is so frustrated with Beshear that he is "close to saying f-- it all. I do not need this job. I do not need the U.S. Senate."Mongiardo is also heard saying that Beshear, who has endorsed Mongiardo, will be remembered as the state's "worst" governor and that a "blowup" is coming.
Mongiardo spokesman Kim Geveden said the audio tape was "edited" and that Mongiardo "strongly supports" Beshear.
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The U.S. Senate campaign of Attorney General Jack Conway, Mongiardo's chief rival in May's Democratic primary election, said Monday that Mongiardo "has a lot of explaining to do to the governor and the people" about the anonymous tape.
Beshear spokesman Jay Blanton said Monday evening that "the Governor continues to strongly support Lt. Gov. Mongiardo's candidacy for the U.S. Senate." He declined to comment on the YouTube recording.
This is not the first time profanity-laced statements have caused problems in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate.
Conway apologized last month for using profanity during statements he made at the annual Fancy Farm political picnic in Graves County.
Beshear was something of a surprise winner of the 2007 Democratic primary, surging late in a crowded field. He easily defeated incumbent Gov. Ernie Fletcher (R) that fall, but saw his popularity wane quickly. Mongiardo's comments about Beshear's standing has to only further worry state Democrats.