Jackson Purchase News

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has expressed his condolences following the death of Bob Gable, a former Chair of the Republican Party of Kentucky. In a statement released today, McConnell reflected on Gable's significant contributions to Kentucky politics.

“Elaine and I are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend Bob Gable, a titanic figure in the Kentucky Republican Party," McConnell stated. He recalled how many in Kentucky politics, including himself, have memories linked to Gable's influence.

Gable began his political journey as an appointee under Governor Louie Nunn, who was noted as Kentucky’s only Republican governor for over fifty years at that time. Despite the state's Democratic dominance then, Gable ran for governor in 1975 and revitalized the state party with new energy.

In 1986, when Gable became Chair of the Republican Party of Kentucky, the party had limited representation and financial resources. "When he was named Chair...our party held only one statewide seat and reportedly only had a net worth of $300," McConnell noted. He credited much of the transformation within both the party and Commonwealth to Gable's dedication.

McConnell concluded by offering condolences to Gable's family: “Elaine and I share our condolences with the entire Gable family along with our gratitude for Bob’s lifelong work to bring conservative principles to Kentucky.”