the catch-22's associated with Gov. Fletcher's best policy

a stream of consciousness based on the C-J's five-part series (cover stories) on the policy differences (or lack thereof) between Gov. Ernie Fletcher and his challenger, Steve Beshear...

What has been most noteworthy: how little these two seem to disagree on the issues. Of course, this is smart politically for Beshear-- at least for the short-term, to gain the office. If Beshear looks like Fletcher and doesn't have Fletcher's baggage, then he should win easily. Of course, this sets up Beshear to be just another Kentucky governor. But maybe that's all he would be anyway.

An odd thing to me (and maybe I missed it), but I haven't seen anything on, arguably, the most important policy move of the Fletcher administration-- the tax reform that dramatically reduced the number of the working poor who were impacted by the state's income tax. Prior to Fletcher's reform, Kentucky was #1 in the nation in taxing the working poor. (I used to use that as a laugh line all the time: it's good to see Kentucky #1 at something!)

Why isn't this getting more "press"?

First, you'd think that the C-J would be praising him left and right for this reform. But would put them in the awkward position of praising someone they oppose.

Second, you'd think that Fletcher would make a big deal out of this. But unfortunately, few Republicans-- and most people in general-- don't care much if at all about issues like this.

Third, special interests typically carry the day, leading the candidates and the media to focus on "hot-button" but more trivial issues like gambling and coal.

It looks like an uninspired candidate will win the governor's race in Kentucky and the state will tread water (or sink further below the surface) for the next four years.