Gov. Beshear releases additional statement over University of Kentucky’s management, decision-making

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is doubling down on his criticism of the University of Kentucky’s leadership, drawing pushback from state leaders who are defending the university’s recent hiring decisions.

The dispute centers on the creation of a new $1 million position without defined duties and the appointment of Judge Van Tatenhove as the new law school dean. Beshear noted Van Tatenhove was the only candidate not recommended by faculty.

Beshear released a statement Wednesday saying he has received countless calls and messages agreeing that the university needs to reconsider its actions.

“Since yesterday I have received countless calls and messages agreeing that the University of Kentucky needs to reconsider its recent actions. The fact that a political party defended the law school dean’s appointment is telling. Kentuckians deserve a nonpartisan university that doesn’t waste taxpayer dollars. We also deserve real oversight that will tell UK’s administration no when it is making a mistake. I hope we will see that oversight in the meetings beginning today.” 

House Speaker David Osborne released a statement Wednesday afternoon supporting the university and its current leadership, including President Dr. Eli Capilouto. Osborne said the situation is about principle, not politics, and added that institutions require clear boundaries, mutual respect, and the space to function without interference.

“This statement is, first and foremost, an expression of strong support for the University of Kentucky and its current leadership. Institutions like UK depend on stability and respect for their governance, and unnecessary political involvement risks undermining both. However, recent actions by the governor regarding leadership decisions at the university raise serious and legitimate concerns. Whatever is driving this disagreement, seeing it play out on social media represents a troubling departure from the restraint that should guide interactions between the executive branch and independent institutions. My experience working with Dr. Eli Capilouto and members of the Board of Trustees has been consistently positive. Dr. Capilouto’s leadership through budget and policy discussions has been steady, thoughtful, and solutions-oriented. Additionally, the incoming law school dean is a man who is widely respected among judicial and legal communities after decades of principled leadership, sound judgment, and an unwavering respect for the rule of law.”

Beshear initially expressed his growing concern and loss of confidence in the university’s management on Tuesday. He expressed worry that decisions are tied to donors exerting partisan and undue outside influence. He also noted a shift in the university’s stance on the dean’s approval process.

A statement from Gov. Beshear. pic.twitter.com/DgoI8NjfGO

— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) April 21, 2026

“I’ve been told that despite previously saying the dean must be approved by UK’s Board of Trustees, the university has shifted and now states that approval is not needed,” Beshear said. “I hope students, faculty, trustees and the community attend this week’s board meetings and ask the tough questions that should be answered.”

Secretary of State Michael Adams pushed back at Beshear’s initial statement, adding that he is losing confidence and growing increasingly concerned about the governor’s decision-making.

The University of Kentucky released a statement saying they appreciate the governor’s feedback but disagree with his assessment.

“We appreciate and always respect the Governor’s interest and feedback. We take it seriously, but respectfully disagree with his assessment. In Judge Van Tatenhove we have someone who will be an outstanding Dean for the Rosenberg College of Law. With more than two decades of experience and an exemplary record on the federal courts, as well as years as a U.S. Attorney and in public service, he is the right leader, with the right skills and the right background and expertise at a critical moment for the college,” the university said.

J. David Rosenberg also provided a statement to the university today regarding Van Tatenhove’s appointment.

“I am a long-time supporter and admirer of both former Governor Steve Beshear and his son, Governor Andy Beshear, as well as University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto. The recent criticism of the University’s appointment of Judge Greg Van Tatenhove to be Dean of the College of Law is distressing. As I said at the time of Judge Van Tatenhove’s appointment, his prominence and respect among his peers in the judiciary and among leading attorneys will help attract top-flight students and faculty to our college and will engage our alumni in supporting its success. His years of experience as U.S. Attorney and District Judge will be invaluable in guiding our graduates starting their own careers. I continue to think Judge Van Tatenhove is the best candidate at this time to lead the College of Law,” Rosenberg said.