Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear faced criticism for his $40,000 budget for a week-long trip to Europe, including stops in Davos, Switzerland, Finland, and Sweden, to attend the World Economic Forum. The trip aimed to engage with business leaders and promote economic development, with meetings involving 16 Kentucky-based companies and eight potential firms, potentially creating 650 jobs. The expenses covered flights for five people, hotel stays, registration fees, and parking, all managed by Delta Airlines. Republican lawmakers questioned the trip's necessity, suggesting it was more about boosting Beshear’s national profile amid speculation about a 2028 presidential run, rather than serving Kentucky’s immediate economic interests. Critics highlighted the financial burden on taxpayers and called for reforms, including legislation to limit governor travel expenses, which is pending in the state legislature. Beshear participated in discussions on economic opportunities and criticized former President Donald Trump on international relations. Despite political opposition, his office remains optimistic about the trip’s potential to benefit Kentucky’s economy. This trip followed a previous one last year costing approximately $81,000, continuing a pattern of scrutiny over the governor’s international travel.