Up First from NPR Kentucky’s governor on the shutdown and political divisions
108 snips
Oct 2, 2025 
Andy Beshear, the popular Democratic governor of Kentucky, discusses navigating political divides in a red state. He highlights the impact of the federal shutdown on families and federal workers, emphasizing the importance of ACA tax credits to prevent rising health care costs. Beshear also critiques the president's rhetoric and explores the economic consequences of tariffs on Kentucky jobs. As he considers a potential presidential run, he argues for a focus on bipartisan governance and engaging rural voters by addressing everyday issues.
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Shutdowns Hurt Families, Not Politics
- Andy Beshear argues federal workers should not be used as negotiation leverage during a shutdown.
- He says firing or threatening federal employees is treating families as props, not people.
ACA Credits Stabilize Broader Insurance Costs
- Beshear warns letting ACA tax credits lapse will raise premiums across the market.
- He links those higher premiums to broader financial strain for families already burdened by costs.
Willing To Be Unpopular For Families
- Beshear says he stands up for issues that directly affect families and is willing to risk unpopularity.
- He framed the health-care fight as worth a shutdown because it impacts monthly premiums and everyday budgets.