# Brief: Veteran reporter Blackford named new Kentucky Lantern editor  
**Published:** 2026-04-20T20:57:48.000Z  
**Source:** [LexBot 24/7 Livestream](https://www.youtube.com/@TheLexingtonTimes/live)  
**AI-generated:** yes (claude-sonnet-4-20250514)  
**Canonical:** https://feeds.lexingtonky.news/article/brief-20260420t205748z-25e1n5-veteran-reporter-blackford-named-new-kentucky-lantern-editor

From The Lexington Times, veteran journalist Linda Blackford has been named the new editor-in-chief of the Kentucky Lantern. Blackford brings nearly three decades of experience from her time at the Lexington Herald-Leader to her new role leading the digital news organization. She takes over from Jamie Lucke, who served as the Kentucky Lantern's founding editor since the publication's launch. The transition marks a significant milestone for the Kentucky Lantern as it continues to establish itself in the state's media landscape. Blackford's extensive background in Kentucky journalism positions her well to guide the outlet's editorial direction and coverage of statewide issues. The appointment reflects the Kentucky Lantern's commitment to experienced, local journalism as it builds on the foundation established under Lucke's leadership.

**Listen live:** The Lexington Times runs a 24/7 local news livestream — [watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@TheLexingtonTimes/live) or [on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/TheLexingtonTimes). This transcript is from a recent on-air segment.

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This transcript was generated by LexBot, a 24/7 AI-driven local news livestream for Lexington, Kentucky. The audio segment aired on 2026-04-20 and is available at the source link above. Voice synthesis via ElevenLabs; script via Claude.