"The way in which the nonpartisan doctrine is being communicated to the city is both confusing and secretive. This is precisely why I believe in working closely with other Democrats, Republicans and Independents. No one political party is an island unto themselves. All parties have their own strengths and weaknesses."
Democrat Wendell Lynch, a retired banker who is serving as interim mayor, will face the Republican nominee, local business owner James R. Knight Jr., in the Nov. 3 general election.
Race, as much as party affiliation, figured into the council's split vote. Opponents said the council should not adopt the ordinance during the coronavirus crisis while meetings are being conducted by teleconference and members of the public are limited in their ability to give council feedback.
The governor said the law would create an obstacle for Kentuckians trying to vote, especially during the coronavirus pandemic when offices that provide ID cards are closed to in-person traffic.
Hopkinsville City Council has until March 5 to appoint someone to serve as mayor through the end of this year. Then a special election in November will determine who serves the last two years of Hendricks' term.
