"Kentucky governor's aid to storm-ravaged towns threatens GOP stronghold in rural areas"

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear's efforts to help storm-ravaged towns, such as Mayfield, rebuild after tornadoes and floods could potentially dilute the Republican advantage in rural areas and aid his reelection bid. Beshear has been praised for his response to the disasters and has been seen as a consoler-in-chief by some Kentuckians. However, there are criticisms about the slow pace of recovery. Republican candidate Daniel Cameron is relying on rural voters to secure victory in a state that has become a GOP stronghold in recent years. Beshear is expected to perform well in cities and suburbs, while hoping to narrow the rural margins favoring the GOP.