Now the pugnacious governor faces the first test of his reelection campaign in a race that could offer clues about the electorate's mood heading into a presidential election year.
Voters get to speak Tuesday in a state the GOP has recently dominated, but where Democrats see an opportunity to win back the governorship.
Three prominent Democrats, including the son of Bevin's predecessor, are competing for the chance to challenge Bevin. The leading Democrats are Attorney General Andy Beshear, ex-state auditor Adam Edelen and longtime state Rep. Rocky Adkins.
Beshear's father served two terms as governor.
Bevin has three Republican primary challengers, including state Rep. Robert Goforth.
