Bevin takes behind-the-scenes role in 2018 campaign

GEORGETOWN, Ky. (AP) — Republicans defending their majority in Kentucky's House of Representatives have had to do it with less public help from one of their biggest cheerleaders: Gov. Matt Bevin.

Bevin campaigned extensively two years ago that resulted in the GOP winning a majority in the House for the first time in nearly 100 years. But since then, his approval ratings have declined following critical comments of public school teachers who oppose his pension reforms. A recent Morning Consult Poll found 55 percent of people in Kentucky disapprove of Bevin's job performance.

Bevin dismissed his poll numbers, saying they have never been high and have not stopped him from campaigning effectively.