Scott opens race for governor by backing expanded gambling

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Republican gubernatorial hopeful Will T. Scott has selected former sheriff Rodney Coffey as his running mate and has endorsed expanding gambling as a way to raise money to meet Kentucky’s public pension obligations.

Scott introduced the former Menifee County sheriff as his running mate at a campaign kickoff Tuesday in Louisville.

The ticket matches two eastern Kentuckians, but Scott says his ideas will appeal to voters statewide.

Scott, a Pike County native, endorsed a constitutional amendment legalizing casino-style gambling. He said most of the money should be earmarked to pay down the state’s unfunded pension liabilities.

Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear made expanded gambling a centerpiece of his campaigns but has been unable to get gambling legislation through the General Assembly.

Scott also made a pitch for charter schools in his announcement.

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