LEXINGTON, Ky. — Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman announced Monday morning that she will run for governor in 2027, becoming the first candidate to formally enter the race for the seat being vacated by term-limited Gov. Andy Beshear.

The 43-year-old Democrat made her announcement at the Hall of Governors at the Kentucky Historical Society in Frankfort, making education a centerpiece of her campaign. Coleman, a former teacher, assistant principal and basketball coach, pledged to "not stop until Pre-K is a reality for every Kentucky family." Beshear's efforts to fund Pre-K for all Kentucky 4-year-olds in the state budget were unsuccessful with the Republican-controlled General Assembly.

Coleman's campaign emphasized healthcare and economic development alongside education. Speaking about her own health challenges, she shared that she underwent a double mastectomy in December 2023, saying it made her realize the importance of healthcare access and autonomy for all Kentuckians.

Former Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen introduced Coleman at the event, drawing parallels to the late Gov. Martha Layne Collins, Kentucky's only female governor. Luallen noted that only one woman's portrait hangs in the Hall of Governors and expressed hope that Coleman would become the next. Coleman acknowledged Collins' legacy, particularly her role in bringing Toyota manufacturing to Georgetown, saying that "much of our economic success was built on the foundation" established by Collins.

Coleman earned her bachelor's degree in history and secondary education from Centre College while playing on the basketball team. She later earned a master's degree in political science from the University of Louisville. Her father, Jack Coleman, previously served as a state representative from Mercer County, and she grew up in Harrodsburg.

The general election will be held November 2, 2027. The gubernatorial nominee will then choose a lieutenant gubernatorial running mate, and they run together on a single ticket. Coleman was Beshear's running mate for his 2019 and 2023 campaigns.

In response to Coleman's announcement, Secretary of State Michael Adams called her "a strong candidate" on social media. "If Republicans don't nominate our best vote-getter, appeal beyond our base, and focus on improving Kentuckians' lives, we will have a third term of Andy Beshear," Adams wrote. Adams was the top vote-getter in the 2023 statewide elections.

On the Democratic side, senior adviser to the governor Rocky Adkins remains a rumored candidate, though he has not formally announced. On the Republican side, potential candidates who have not ruled out a run include U.S. Rep. James Comer and state Senate President Robert Stivers.