Paducah Ballot Measures, Explained Simply: November 3, 2026
Each measure below is explained in plain words, from the official ballot language and the McCracken County Clerk. For every one we say what a yes vote means and what a no vote means. This page does not tell you how to vote.
Election day is November 3, 2026. Last updated October 10, 2026. For the candidates, see what's on the ballot in Paducah.
Statewide
Constitutional Amendment 1Are you in favor of limiting a Governor's ability to grant pardons or commute sentences by prohibiting him or her from granting pardons or commuting sentences during the time period beginning 60 days prior to the general election at which the Governor is elected, and ending when the Governor is sworn in for that term by amending the Constitution of Kentucky as stated below?
Today, the Governor can grant pardons and change some sentences, including around an election. This change would stop the Governor from granting pardons or changing sentences starting 60 days before the Governor's election and until the Governor is sworn in for that term. The amendment also keeps the rule that the Governor gives public reasons for each decision.
- If Yes wins
- A yes vote means the proposed change would become part of Kentucky's Constitution. The Governor could not grant pardons or change sentences during the stated election period.
- If No wins
- A no vote means the proposed change would not take effect. The current rules for the Governor's pardon and sentence-changing powers would remain.
- How it got on the ballot: Proposed by the Kentucky General Assembly through Senate Bill 51.
Explained from Kentucky Secretary of State, 2026 Constitutional Amendments, Kentucky Legislative Research Commission, fiscal note for SB 51, Kentucky Secretary of State, McCracken County Sample Ballot, November 3, 2026. Listed by Kentucky Secretary of State, McCracken County Sample Ballot.