Max Wise Reflects on New Role, Leadership Approach Ahead of 2025 Legislative Session
FRANKFORT — With the Kentucky Senate gearing up for the 2025 legislative session, one of the biggest shifts in leadership is coming with the rise of Sen. Max Wise as the new majority floor leader. The Campbellsville Republican was elected last month, winning the vote over former Republican Caucus Chair Sen. Julie Raque Adams of Louisville. As Wise prepares to start his 10th year in the Senate, he is reflecting on what led him to this leadership role and what Kentuckians can expect from him in the coming session.
A Leadership Opportunity He Couldn’t Pass Up
For Max Wise, becoming the Senate’s new floor leader was never something he actively pursued. Instead, he viewed it as an opportunity that presented itself at the right time. As he prepares to enter his 10th year of public service, Wise has made his mark on key pieces of legislation, but leadership roles were not initially his focus. That all changed when outgoing Floor Leader Damon Thayer announced he would not seek reelection to the Senate this year.
“I didn’t want to challenge a sitting member of leadership,” Wise shared in a recent interview with the Kentucky Lantern. “I kind of wanted to play a long game and see what may open up.”
But when the position became available, Wise knew it was his moment. “I did not want to have a regret in life of looking back and not running and wishing, ‘I wish I had tried that,’” he added. “You never know, and I’ve always carried on the belief that you can’t be afraid to lose in life.”
This bold mindset, alongside his ability to communicate and work well with others, made him a natural fit for the role. “I think I’m someone who can bring integrity, stand up for what’s right, and be a fighter for the people,” Wise said, confident that his leadership style will resonate in Frankfort.
Stepping Into Leadership with a Clear Vision
Now that he’s been elected, Wise is focused on the future and what his new role will entail. As the majority floor leader, he’ll be at the center of the Senate’s legislative agenda, helping shape the direction of key policy debates and ensuring that his party’s priorities move forward.
When asked about his leadership approach, Wise emphasized the importance of collaboration and transparency. “I want to be someone who listens to people. I don’t think it’s about forcing an agenda. It’s about finding consensus,” he explained. His work in education policy, where he’s held roles such as the chair of the Senate Education Committee, has allowed him to build strong relationships across party lines.
His previous legislative efforts, including his school “guardian” bill, have demonstrated his ability to push forward important issues while considering the views of both sides of the aisle. This balancing act is something Wise intends to bring to his floor leader position, where managing party dynamics will be critical to advancing legislation.
Key Goals for 2025
As Wise prepares for the 2025 session, he’s outlined a few priorities for the upcoming legislative year. Education continues to be a central issue for him, particularly in the wake of his previous work on education reform. Beyond that, Wise has indicated his intent to champion policies that focus on the economy, job creation, and public safety—issues that are always top of mind for Kentucky families.
Bullet points highlighting Wise’s goals include:
- Strengthening Kentucky’s education system and ensuring accessibility for all students
- Prioritizing economic growth, including workforce development and job creation
- Advancing public safety reforms to keep Kentucky communities safe
A Personal Touch on Political Leadership
Despite the public nature of his role, Wise is quick to note that the person he is at the State Capitol is the same person he is at home in Campbellsville. “Frankfort has not changed me,” he said firmly. “I’m still that same person who grew up in a small town with big dreams. This job is about serving people, not about changing who you are.”
This authenticity and commitment to remaining grounded have been key to Wise’s success in politics. His approach, rooted in his deep understanding of his constituents, will likely be an asset as he takes on this new role. But while he remains the same person, Wise is also quick to acknowledge that leadership will bring new challenges—and that he is ready to face them head-on.
“We’re going to have some hard debates and difficult decisions ahead,” Wise said. “But I’m ready for it. I’m excited for the opportunity to lead my colleagues, and I’m optimistic about the future.”
As the 2025 legislative session approaches, all eyes will be on Max Wise to see how he leads Kentucky’s Senate through what promises to be another challenging year.
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