The Democrats -- Beshear and his running mate, Jacqueline Coleman -- placed much of their focus on Kentucky's educators and their anger over moves by the Bevin administration to make changes to their pensions.
Bevin, a Republican who has polled consistently as among the least popular governors in the nation, highlighted his anti-abortion rights agenda and close ties with President Donald Trump.
Trump and Vice President Mike Pence made high-profile visits in the final week before the election, including an election eve rally by Trump in downtown Lexington at Rupp Arena.
While Bevin basked in the attention and personal visits from Trump and Pence, Beshear worked to shore up votes and keep voters looking at local issues, including his support for expanded gambling in the state.
Beshear campaigned with his father, former Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear, and Democratic House Floor Leader Rocky Adkins, a popular eastern Kentucky Democrat who he beat in the primary.
We are confident that Gov. Beshear will serve as a strong advocate for pension sustainability and stakeholder contract rights.".
Gov. Matt Bevin has refused to concede the race. »