Leaders Focus on Economic Growth and Workforce at 2026 Kentucky Chamber Day Dinner

Business and civic leaders from across the Commonwealth gathered for the 2026 Kentucky Chamber Day Dinner as the General Assembly kicked off this week. 

Kentucky Chamber Board Chair Condrad Daniels opened the event by reflecting on a year marked by collaboration and progress. He highlighted the Chamber’s work with the General Assembly to advance pro-growth policies, lead initiatives to support Kentucky’s workforce, and drive collaborative solutions to build a stronger Commonwealth.

Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts emphasized the importance of steady, solutions-oriented leadership during a period of economic uncertainty. Watts also outlined the Chamber’s priorities for the 2026 session, with a focus on housing and child care as foundational workforce issues, alongside continued efforts to modernize the tax system.

“When Kentuckians have what they need to work and support their families, our entire state is stronger,” Watts said.

Governor Andy Beshear pointed to record levels of private-sector investment and job creation in Kentucky, even as national economic challenges continue. He outlined his 2026 budget proposals related to housing, health care, infrastructure, workforce development, education, and expanded access to pre-K, and said maintaining opportunity in Kentucky begins with creating good-paying jobs.

Senate President Robert Stivers focused on how consistent legislative leadership since 2016 has shaped Kentucky’s economic direction. He cited pension reform and long-term fiscal policy decisions as factors that improved the state’s financial position. Looking ahead, Stivers emphasized the importance of investing in research, especially in health care, to attract talent, support innovation, and keep the state competitive.

House Speaker David Osborne said Kentucky’s strength comes from the leaders in the room, rather than the halls of the Capitol. He emphasized the importance of making tough decisions and improving efficiency, including modernizing the tax code and passing responsible budgets. Osborne also highlighted education outcomes and workforce readiness as ongoing priorities.

Senate Minority Leader Gerald Neal said Kentucky’s economic success depends on whether people can fully participate in the economy. He pointed to access to child care, housing, transportation, and education as factors that affect workforce stability, and he urged transparency as federal policy decisions place additional pressures on state and local governments.

House Minority Leader Pam Stevenson emphasized the importance of long-term leadership and shared responsibility. Stevenson said that economic success is tied to the well-being of workers and families, and that Kentucky’s future depends on leaders working together to create conditions where communities and businesses can thrive.

As the 2026 legislative session begins, stay tuned at kychamberbottomline.com.