Matt Bevin sent this Letter to our Troopers.

Dear Trooper and Family,

First, allow me to begin by saying Thank You for your service to the Commonwealth! Please accept my sincerest expression of gratitude for the excellent job you and all Troopers do each day to protect our citizens and visitors.

This correspondence is being sent to you to not only thank you for your service, but to assure you of my commitment to you and the Kentucky State Police as a whole.

As a candidate for Governor in this year’s election, I have had the privilege to meet with and speak to many of our troopers as I travel around the state. During this past year, as I have learned more about KSP, its mission, and its needs, I have become concerned about three issues.

First, your pay is far below what you deserve for the job you perform. At $5,000 below the average of the seven surrounding states and ranking at 24th in the state compared to local police agencies, this is unacceptable.

Second, the manpower levels are far below what is adequately needed to deliver the service for our citizens and visitors. I believe that the current level of 871 Troopers is insufficient given the expansive road network and population increases our state has experienced.

Lastly, we must address the retirement system funding crisis. I am the only candidate to offer a solution that will deliver on the promises that we have made to our current and retired troopers.

Let me be clear, if elected Governor, I will ensure that public safety is a priority as a primary government function. KSP is the leader of that mission. It is my pledge to you to work diligently with the General Assembly to raise the pay of all Troopers and to increase the authorized strength levels to numbers sufficient for safety and to provide timely service.

I also pledge to work with the Kentucky Retirement System and the Legislature to stabilize your retirement account for the financial security of you and your families.

As we near Election Day in a race that is extremely close, you will likely hear many rumors and gossip about my stance on a variety of issues. Please don’t be fooled. We have attempted to address each deceitful accusation and claim with facts and information which sheds light on each lie.

You can learn the facts at mattbevin.com/truth.

The admiration I hold for you and the members of the KSP is why I am sharing my plans and commitment to you in this letter. As an active duty veteran of the U.S. Army, I know firsthand what it means to wear a uniform in defense of others. I personally understand the character of those who choose to wear a uniform in service to our Commonwealth and nation.

As Kentucky’s next Governor, I will fight to make sure the Kentucky State Police continues to be a model for others to emulate. We will maintain our standing among all police agencies across America as being the best — the “Thin Gray Line”.

Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts and gratitude with you and your family. I would be honored to have your vote on November 3rd.

Let freedom ring,

Matt Bevin
GOP Nominee for Kentucky Governor