The Kentucky Young Democrats, and the Young Democrats of America (“YDA”) also have their eyes on the Kentucky Senate, as Democrats have an opportunity to retake the upper chamber of the Kentucky General Assembly. (previous story)

“For ten years the Kentucky State Senate has been controlled by a Republican Majority. And for ten years progress in this state has been blocked by this body,” stated YDA Vice President Colmon Elridge. “Lead by Senate President David Williams – the “Bully from Burkesville” and Sen. Mitch McConnell protege – the Kentucky State Senate has denied Democratic proposals that would create jobs, protect education and assist Kentucky families in these difficult economic times.”

Last year, a statewide adoption ban was proposed in the Kentucky Senate. Had the legislation passed, any unmarried person “in a marriage not recognized by the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky” would not have been able to adopt children or serve as foster parents.

Under the presidency of David L. Williams, the Kentucky Senate has stopped legislation to address school bullying (previous story), attempted to stop domestic-partner benefits at Kentucky’s universities (previous story), and repeatedly blocked a statewide equality law to prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in housing, employment, credit, and accommodations.

Senate President Williams has stated the “homosexuality is aberrant behavior,” while Kentucky Equality Federation President Jordan Palmer has accused Williams of being “homophobic.”  (source) Senate President Williams has routinely ignored rallies organized by Kentucky Fairness Alliance, Kentucky Equality Federation, Louisville’s Fairness Campaign, and Lexington Fairness.  Instead, Williams attends rallies held by the Family Foundation of Kentucky, an anti-gay organization.

Keeping a campaign promise to the gay and lesbian community, Governor Steve Beshear issued an executive order prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in Kentucky’s government. (previous story)

YDA Vice President Colmon Elridge also stated, “Just as Democrats from across the country were able to work together to knock Mitch off his “Majority” throne, here in Kentucky we are working together to regain control of our own State Senate. After two previous special elections, which Democrats captured, the Senate now has 19 Republicans, 17 Democrats and one Independent. One more Democratic victory could help change the balance of power in the State Senate. The election of Jodie Haydon in the 14th Senate District will bring us one step closer to taking back the State Senate and establishing a Democratic Majority before the 2011 redistricting.”

Young Democrats of Kentucky Take Action

Elridge continued:

“I invite each of you to join the Kentucky Young Democrats in the Bourbon Capitol of the World, Bardstown, KY, for a campaign invasion the weekend of December 4-6.  We need as many people as we possible to help turn out voters for the December 8th special election.  We already have an amazing field plan in place, and just need YOUR help to kick it into overdrive.

If you are interested in joining us please contact Travis Scott. The Marion County Young Democrats, in partnership with the Kentucky Young Democrats, will be hosting a get together on Saturday night December 5th for all Young Dems that come in to help with GOTV efforts in the Bourbon Capitol of the World.  We hope you can join us.”