Sen. Damon Thayer

Sen. Damon Thayer

FRANKFORT — Several Republican leaders in the Kentucky Senate face challenges this week to keep their positions of power.Kentucky Senate Republicans plan to meet privately Friday in the Capitol Annex to elect their leaders for the next two years. Legislative leaders determine the flow of bills and make committee appointments. Republicans will hold a 28-10 advantage in membership over Democrats when the 2019 General Assembly begins Jan. 8

It appears Senate President Robert Stivers of Manchester will have no opposition, but Damon Thayer of Georgetown, who has been majority floor leader for six years, is being challenged by Brandon Smith of Hazard, who formerly has served as majority whip.

“I am seeking re-election and am aware that Sen. Smith is opposing me,” Thayer said in a telephone interview.