By Joe Biesk
The Associated Press

FRANKFORT - Jarred by their first statewide political losses in decades, state Democratic leaders regrouped Thursday and decided to showcase a united front in mapping the party's future.

Party leaders met behind closed doors for about two hours at their Frankfort headquarters. When they came out, they said the gathering was only the first of such meetings.

"We are united. We are on the same page," state Treasurer Jonathan Miller said. "We are very excited about the future of this party. We can't wait to start sharing this vision that we will be developing."

Present at the meeting were House Speaker Jody Richards, party chairman Susan Westrom, state Sen. Daniel Mongiardo, Miller, Attorney General-elect Greg Stumbo, Auditor-elect Crit Luallen and state Sen. Ed Worley of Richmond. Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson also listened in by phone, they said.

Democrats had held the governor's office and the statewide constitutional offices for more than three decades. That all changed Tuesday as Republican U.S. Rep. Ernie Fletcher defeated Democrat Ben Chandler for governor. Republicans also captured other posts, including secretary of state and commissioner of agriculture.

Miller was the only incumbent to run for re-election. He defeated Republican Adam Koenig to win a second term as treasurer.

But Fletcher's victory leaves a pending vacancy for the 6th District congressional seat. Democrats are now fielding candidates to run for Fletcher's spot, Westrom said.

Chandler's name has been floated for that role, and he "would be the premier candidate," Westrom said. However, a final nominee has not yet been selected.