Kentucky‘s first and only female governor Martha Layne Collins has died at the age of 88.
The state’s current governor Andy Beshear shared the devastating news on X Saturday morning about Collins, who he referred to as a ‘powerhouse.’
‘Today Kentucky said goodbye to our first and only woman Governor – and my friend – Martha Layne Collins,’ Beshear wrote.
‘Gov. Collins was a powerhouse, transforming our common wealth through major accomplishments like bringing Toyota to our state for its first U.S. site.
‘She created a foundation for us to build a strong future upon, and her legacy will continue to benefit Kentucky families for generations,’ he said, adding the ‘proud Kentuckian’ will be truly missed.
Attorney General Russell Coleman also paid tribute to Collins on social media following news of her passing.
‘As a dad of two daughters, I applaud Governor Collins’ service to Kentucky and busting through the glass ceiling to show that there are no limitations in our Commonwealth,’ Coleman said. ‘I send our condolences to Dr. Collins, their children and the entire family.’
Collins served as the 56th governor from 1983 to 1987. She also served as the lieutenant governor under John Y. Brown from 1979 to 1983.
Martha Layne Collins, Kentucky’s first and only female governor, has died at the age of 88
She was considered a potential Democratic presidential nominee for Walter Mondale in 1984.
Instead, Mondale, the 42nd US vice president, chose Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro.
Collins, who was born in Bagdad- about 20 minutes outside of Frankfort – graduated from the University of Kentucky before working as a school teacher.
Her interest in politics sparked in 1971 when she worked on Wendell Ford’s gubernatorial campaign.
She then worked on Walter ‘Dee’ Huddleston’s US Senate campaign the following year.
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow…
