STATEMENT FROM SENATE PRESIDENT ROBERT STIVERS REGARDING JUDGE JULIE MUTH GOODMAN’S IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS

STATEMENT FROM SENATE PRESIDENT ROBERT STIVERS REGARDING JUDGE JULIE MUTH GOODMAN’S IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 15, 2026) — Senate President Robert Stivers, R-Manchester, released the following statement after the committee meeting regarding the impeachment of Fayette Circuit Judge Julie Muth Goodman.

“As clearly established in the Constitution of Kentucky, the Kentucky Senate holds the sole authority to conduct impeachment proceedings in the commonwealth. That authority is exclusive, fundamental, and must remain free from interference. The April 6 opinion issued by the Kentucky Supreme Court represents an inappropriate encroachment on that constitutional responsibility.

“The Impeachment Committee convened today for the sole, limited purpose of receiving the articles of impeachment from the House and determining the next step. The committee made a determination that it was the best course to delay any further action. 

“The Supreme Court has, in its order, made the Kentucky Senate aware of an investigation by the Judicial Conduct Commission. The Senate implores the Judicial Conduct Commission to conclude a comprehensive and prompt investigation and provide a report of its findings to the Kentucky General Assembly. At such time, it may be proper for the General Assembly to proceed further. 

“Above all, the Senate remains committed to upholding the integrity of the Constitution of Kentucky and preserving the balance among our three independent, co-equal branches of government.”