Republican Primary Winner Paul Hays Appointed as Interim County Judge by Governor Beshear

Jackson County Attorney Ross Murray posted on social media:

As most citizens of Jackson County are already aware, Jackson County Judge Executive Shane Gabbard resigned from his position on April 24, 2026. Also on April 24, 2026, the Jackson County Fiscal Court voted, pursuant to the provisions of KRS 67.705, that Jackson County Magistrate Dale Vaughn was appointed as Temporary Jackson County Judge Executive until such time as Governor Andy Beshear could appoint a new Jackson County Judge Executive to serve until the winner of the November general election takes office on January 1, 2027.
Earlier today, May 21, 2026, I was informed by the Governor's office that Paul Hays, the winner of the Republican primary for Judge Executive, has now been appointed by the Governor to serve out the remainder of Shane Gabbard's term. Judge Executive Paul Hays will be officially sworn in on Monday, May 25, 2026. Please join me in congratulating and supporting Paul Hays as he takes on the mantle of Jackson County Judge Executive.
We should also thank Magistrate Dale Vaughn for his decision to take on the difficult job of Temporary Judge Executive until the Governor made a decision on the new appointment.