Haydon, Higdon to run for Kelly’s seat

FRANKFORT — A former Democratic state representative from Bardstown and a current Republican state representative from Lebanon have signaled their intent to run for the seat held by Republican Sen. Dan Kelly in the 2010 election.

According to the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance, contractor Jodie Haydon,who retired from the legislature in 2004, filed paperwork on Wednesday allowing him to raise money for a potential Senate race. On the Republican ticket, Rep. Jimmy Higdon and Kelly have also filed paperwork to seek the seat that may become open before the 2010 election.

Kelly, R-Springfield, has not commented on whether he is interested in an open Circuit Court judgeship in the 11th Judicial District. But Senate President David Williams, R-Burkesville, has said he expects Democrat Gov. Steve Beshear to tap Kelly for the job in an attempt to further thin the ranks of the Republican majority in the Senate.

A judicial nominating commission is supposed to meet before the end of this month to pick three candidates for the job. Beshear will then choose from the three nominees.

If Beshear chooses Kelly, a special election would likely be held for his Senate seat. In a special election, the respective parties nominate candidates for the position. If Higdon and Haydon are the nominees, they could amend their paperwork with the registry to start raising money for the special election.

Haydon could not immediately be reached for comment on Thursday. Higdon, a Lebanon businessman, filed his paperwork with the registry on Sept. 14. Senate District 14 includes Marion, Mercer, Nelson, Taylor and Washington counties.

– Beth Musgrave

Filed Under: Dan Kelly • David Williams • Elections • KY General Assembly • State Government