Stivers confirms interest in Senate presidency, others GOP senators mulling leadership runs

The most likely successor to David Williams as Senate president confirmed his interest in seeking the top spot after congratulating Williams for accepting a judgeship on Friday.

Sen. Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, has served as Republican Floor Leader, the No. 2 position in the GOP caucus, since 2009. And his interest in the race has cleared the field of likely contenders.

The Senate Republicans will meet Nov. 1 to choose a Senate leader to co-chair the Legislative Research Commission. The Senators will vote for the next Senate president in January when the General Assembly reconvenes.

“As many of you know, I am running for reelection to the 25th Senatorial District. After November 6th, it is my intention to seek the office of the Senate President,” Stivers said in a three-sentence statement Friday afternoon — three hours after Williams accepted the appointment from Gov. Steve Beshear to be a circuit judge.

Out of respect for Williams, Stivers had remained tight-lipped about his intentions until Williams accepted the judgeship.

Other Republicans whose names surfaced as possible contenders for the Senate presidency told Pure Politics on Friday that they back Stivers and are interested in other leadership positions in the caucus.

Sen. David Givens, R-Greensburg, said he is “supporting Senator Stivers for Senate president.” And he said he will speak with his fellow Republican senators next week about running for another leadership position.

Sen. Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, told Pure Politics he intends to run for Republican floor leader if Stivers, indeed, seeks the Senate presidency.