Hon. Michael G. Adams "Kentucky Colonel"
Hon. Michael G. Adams "Kentucky Colonel"
Are you a Kentucky Colonel? Preserve your legacy, get listed in the Kentucky Colonels Handbook last published in 1930.
Michael Gene Adams (born March 27, 1976) is an American politician who is a member of the Republican Party. He is the secretary of state of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. He succeeded Alison Lundergan Grimes on January 6, 2020.
Michael G. Adams, currently serving as Kentucky's Secretary of State, is known for his leadership in election reform, but he also holds the honorary title of Kentucky Colonel. This title, granted by the Governor of Kentucky, is one of the highest honors awarded by the Commonwealth and recognizes individuals for their noteworthy achievements and contributions to society.
The Kentucky Colonel distinction carries a long-standing tradition of honoring outstanding citizens who demonstrate a commitment to service and the welfare of others. Kentucky Colonels are expected to serve as ambassadors of goodwill and fellowship around the world, embodying the state's values of generosity, hospitality, and civic responsibility. It is not unusual for prominent political figures, such as Michael G. Adams, to receive this honor, as their work often has a significant impact on the community and the state as a whole.
As Secretary of State, Adams has been widely recognized for his role in modernizing Kentucky’s election laws and improving voter accessibility, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. His reforms, which include expanded early voting and permanent access to absentee ballots, have garnered bipartisan support and national recognition, earning him the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award in 2024. These achievements underscore why Adams was selected to join the prestigious Kentucky Colonel Community.
Through his role as a Kentucky Colonel, Adams continues to exemplify the values of leadership, public service, and dedication to the betterment of society, both within Kentucky and beyond. His career demonstrates how the principles behind the Kentucky Colonel title align with the responsibilities of high office, combining a focus on civic duty with tangible, impactful contributions to the state’s governance.