20151026_150835As the state’s chief prosecutor, chief law enforcement officer and chief law officer, the Attorney General supervises Kentucky’s prosecutors and advises government officials and agencies by writing opinions concerning the law. These responsibilities are crucial in ensuring that state systems work for all of Kentucky kids. In an Attorney General Candidate Conversation About Kids on Monday, both candidates—Andy Beshear and Senator Whitney Westerfield—made it clear to the more than 150 attendees that protecting kids will be a priority if elected to the office.

Nick Storm, anchor and managing editor of cn2’s Pure Politics, moderated the event and asked questions about a variety of kid-related issues that could be under the purview of the Kentucky Attorney General, including continuing reforms in juvenile justice, combating the effects of substance abuse on children and families, further protections for children from abuse, and other ways the office can support children in the Commonwealth.FullSizeRender (1)

As kids were the focus of these critical conversations, youth also participated in the forum to engage with issues that directly affect them. Elliott Kelly, Jr. and classmates from Central High School’s Law and Government Magnet and Katie Okumu from Berea Community High School submitted important video questions about racial disparities. And YouthBuild Louisville student Eugene Boyd conducted the coin toss and adjourned the event.

Thank you to both candidates for keeping kids at the forefront in this election.

Thanks also to the event’s signature sponsor, Kosair Charities®, and the many partners who made the event possible.