Though it may sound like an exaggeration, this year’s statewide elections offer better candidates, better choices and better competition than ever, according to Kent Ostrander, executive director of The Family Foundation.

"Let’s face it, across Kentucky’s history the Democrats have often fielded a good array of candidates for the governor’s office," Ostrander said. "But never have the Republicans matched their slate with an equal number of qualified candidates."

Because of the number of candidates who have thrown their hat in the ring, this year promises to be a bonanza of political dialogue. Each of the seven statewide offices has at least one competitor from each party. That makes the November election interesting. But most races have three, four, or even more candidates vying for their party’s nomination in the May 20 primary. That makes it a horse race.

In addition to a broad field of candidates and the strong two-party challenge, there is also vast diversity on the issues, particularly in the governor’s race. For instance, there are pro-life candidates and pro-choice candidates, raising the possibility that Kentucky may be served by a pro-life governor for the first time since before the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision.

In efforts to increase state revenue, some candidates support expansion of gambling, while others oppose it. With that issue having had significant debate in the last two sessions of the General Assembly, there is little doubt that the choice for governor will have bearing on the direction Kentucky goes in the next four years.

With the state’s budget woes as a backdrop, the candidates are offering very distinctive solutions. Some want more taxation, some have said no. Some focus on developing the economy, while others want to put expanded gambling before the voters.

The state’s education reform of 1990 – KERA – could face changes as some candidates have expressed concerned about the high-stakes testing system and others raise questions about the State School Board’s accountability. Accountability is a particularly sticky issue since the original campaign that passed KERA emphasized accountability of schools and teachers, but the Board over the system has relatively little accountability itself.

Other issues that divide the gubernatorial field are human cloning, the death penalty, contraception distribution in schools, gay benefits on college campuses, and affirmative action.

"Regardless of what your views may be, this year you most likely have a gubernatorial candidate espousing them," Ostrander said. "Everyone should get informed and vote. There’s never been a time more crucial to the future of Kentucky than this period of decision, and it all starts on May 20."