What Kentucky offices were up in 2018
In 2018, Kentucky held statewide and legislative elections that determined leadership and representation across the Commonwealth. This guide explains which Kentucky offices were up for election in 2018, the dates, offices at the federal, state, and local levels, and how races were decided. We focus on offices subject to regular elections and note that primary and general election dates are set by Kentucky law and the respective election calendar each cycle. Understanding these offices helps voters know who appears on their ballot and what each role oversees.
Federal offices on the 2018 Kentucky ballot
U.S. House of Representatives districts
All of Kentucky’s six congressional districts held elections in 2018 for U.S. Representative. Incumbents from districts 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 ran for re-election, while district 5 had an open seat due to Representative Hal Rogers’ long tenure and prior announcements. Candidates filed during the designated filing period and campaigned on priorities including economic development, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure. These elections affected Kentucky’s delegation composition and committee influence in Washington, D.C.
| District | Incumbent before 2018 | Outcome | Term began |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | James Comer | Re-elected | January 2016 (special) |
| 2 | Brett Guthrie | Re-elected | 2009 |
| 3 | John Yarmuth | Re-elected | 2007 |
| 4 | Thomas Massie | Re-elected | 2012 |
| 5 | Hal Rogers | Retired; new representative elected | 1981 (House member from 1981, district established later) |
| 6 | Andy Barr | Re-elected | 2013 |
U.S. Senate
Kentucky’s Class II U.S. Senate seat was not up in 2018; the seat held by the retiring Republican senator was contested in 2020. Consequently, no U.S. Senate elections occurred in Kentucky in 2018.
State-level offices on the 2018 Kentucky ballot
Kentucky state elections in 2018 included constitutional offices and legislative seats. These races shape state policy, budgeting, and administration under the governor’s leadership. Filing requirements, candidate eligibility, and district boundaries are defined in state statutes and administrative rules. Below are the primary statewide offices on the November 2018 ballot.
Governor and Lieutenant Governor
The governor and lieutenant governor, elected as a ticket, lead state administration and propose budgets. In 2018, incumbent Matt Bevin, who entered office in 2016, sought re-election alongside runningmate Jacqueline Coleman. Candidates must meet constitutional requirements including U.S. citizenship, age, and residency. The general election determined executive branch priorities for the latter half of the four-year term.
Secretary of State
The Kentucky Secretary of State oversees elections, business filings, and records. In 2018, Alison Lundergan Grimes was term-limited after serving two four-year terms. A competitive Democratic primary and general election followed, underscoring the office’s role in election administration and corporate governance.
Attorney General
The attorney general provides legal counsel to state agencies and represents the Commonwealth in litigation. In 2018, incumbent Andy Beshear declined to seek re-election to pursue the gubernatorial nomination. This created an open race in which Democratic nominee Greg Stumbo and Republican nominee Daniel Cameron competed. The outcome influenced criminal justice, consumer protection, and civil enforcement priorities.
Auditor of Public Accounts
The state auditor conducts financial, compliance, and performance audits of state and local governments. In 2018, incumbent Mike Harmon, first elected in 2007, sought re-election. The auditor’s independence and statutory authority make this office central to fiscal oversight and government transparency.
Commissioner of Agriculture
The agriculture commissioner regulates pesticides, weights and measures, and agricultural markets. In 2018, incumbent Ryan Quarles, first elected in 2015, ran for re-election. This office is relevant to farming policy, food safety, and rural economic development across the state.
Kentucky State Senate and House of Representatives
All 38 state senate seats and all 100 house districts were up at various times due to term limits and incumbency decisions in 2018. Partisan control of each chamber influenced policy outcomes on education, taxation, health, and public safety. Primary elections determined which candidates advanced to the general ballot in each legislative district.
| Office | Incumbent before 2018 | 2018 Status | Term length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governor | Matt Bevin | Seeks re-election; lost general | 4 years |
| Lieutenant Governor | Jenean Hampton | Seeks re-election; lost general | 4 years |
| Secretary of State | Alison Lundergan Grimes | Term-limited; retired | 4 years |
| Attorney General | Andy Beshear | Open; elected governor | 4 years |
| Auditor of Public Accounts | Mike Harmon | Seeks re-election; re-elected | 4 years |
| Commissioner of Agriculture | Ryan Quarles | Seeks re-election; re-elected | 4 years |
Local and county offices on the 2018 ballot
Many county-level and municipal offices were also up in 2018, including county judges/executives, county commissioners, sheriffs, and city council positions. These races influence public safety, infrastructure, zoning, and local services. Filing rules and nonpartisan procedures vary by county and city. Voters should check their local county clerk’s website for sample ballots and precinct-specific information to confirm which local offices appear on their ballot.
Election dates and filing timeline in Kentucky
Kentucky’s 2018 election calendar followed state law and the regular election cycle. Key dates included the primary in May, general election in November, and filing windows that opened months earlier. Understanding these milestones helps candidates prepare paperwork and voters anticipate when decisions are made.
| Date or Period | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| January–March 2018 | Candidate filing period | Individuals formally qualify to appear on the ballot |
| May 22, 2018 | Primary election | Parties nominate candidates; some races decided if no runoff needed |
| November 6, 2018 | General election | Decides winners for federal, state, and local offices |
Voter eligibility and ID requirements in Kentucky
To vote in Kentucky elections, individuals must be U.S. citizens, Kentucky residents, and at least 18 years old by the general election. Photo ID requirements were in effect for in-person voting in 2018. Acceptable forms included a Kentucky driver’s license, state ID, or other qualifying identification. Voters unable to present ID could cast a provisional ballot and provide ID later. These rules aim to preserve election integrity while ensuring eligible citizens can participate.
What the 2018 results meant for Kentucky’s government
The 2018 general election reshaped Kentucky’s executive and legislative branches. Incumbents retained several offices, while open seats led to new leadership in attorney general and secretary of state roles. Outcomes at the state and local levels influenced policy directions on education funding, pension reform, health coverage, and economic development. Because ballot measures and constitutional amendments also appeared in 2018, voters considered structural changes beyond partisan contests.
How to find your specific ballot in Kentucky
Because Kentucky uses county-run elections, the offices on your ballot depend on your county and municipality. Use the Kentucky State Board of Elections precinct lookup tool or your county clerk’s online portal to view a sample ballot. Enter your address to see federal, state, and local offices specific to your voting location, ensuring you’re informed when you cast your vote.
Other offices and considerations in Kentucky elections
- Judicial races: Kentucky holds nonpartisan elections for some circuit and district court judges; these appear based on county assignment.
- Ballot measures: Constitutional amendments and referred laws were decided by voters in 2018.
- Municipal elections: Some cities and counties hold separate elections, often in off-years; check local notices for timing.
- Civic resources: The Kentucky Secretary of State and county clerks provide candidate guides, forums, and voting location details.
Kentucky offices in the broader electoral context
Kentucky’s 2018 elections occurred alongside midterms nationally, contributing to turnout patterns and policy signals. The state’s results reflected broader trends in rural and suburban voting while maintaining distinct local dynamics. Understanding the offices up for election helps contextualize policy outcomes and representation at every level of government in Kentucky.
Where to verify results and further information
For authoritative information on Kentucky elections, including historical results, candidate lists, and official canvasses, consult the Kentucky State Board of Elections website and your county clerk’s office. These sources provide verified details on past elections, voter registration procedures, and upcoming cycles.
Frequently asked questions about Kentucky offices in 2018
Which offices were up for election in Kentucky in 2018?
In 2018, Kentucky held elections for all six U.S. House districts, the governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, auditor of public accounts, commissioner of agriculture, all state senators, and all state house members, along with numerous local offices.
Was there a U.S. Senate election in Kentucky in 2018?
No. The Class II U.S. Senate seat was not up in 2018. The seat became open in 2020 after the incumbent retired.
What is the term length for Kentucky constitutional officers?
Most constitutional officers in Kentucky, including governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, auditor, and agriculture commissioner, serve four-year terms.
How can I find my local ballot in Kentucky?
Visit the Kentucky State Board of Elections website or your county clerk’s site and use the precinct lookup tool with your address to see the offices and measures on your ballot.
Were there any statewide ballot measures in Kentucky in 2018?
Yes. Kentucky voters considered constitutional amendments and referred measures in 2018. Details are available through the Kentucky Secretary of State and county clerk resources.