Murray State University history professor Brian Clardy provides historical and political analysis in regional media

By Dr. Carrie Jerrell | Sep 1, 2026

MURRAY, Ky. — Dr. Brian Clardy, professor of history at Murray State University, remained active in regional and statewide media over the summer by providing historical perspective and political analysis on issues affecting Kentucky and the nation.

Clardy’s media appearances this summer included WPSD Local 6, The Paducah Sun, Forward Kentucky, WKMS and the Progress Kentucky podcast Colonels of Truth. His commentary draws on his background in American political history and his continued interest in Kentucky politics and public life.

Following Kentucky’s May 2026 primary election, Clardy joined WPSD anchor Todd Faulkner to discuss the results and what they could mean for the fall elections, including the race to succeed longtime U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell. He also provided commentary for WPSD on questions surrounding McConnell’s health and public visibility and the effects his eventual departure from the Senate could have at the state and national levels.

In addition, Clardy also spoke with The Paducah Sun following a U.S. Supreme Court decision on campaign spending. His comments placed the ruling in the larger history of campaign-finance law and the Court’s earlier decision in Citizens United.

As the United States marked its 250th anniversary, Clardy spoke with WKMS,  WPSD, The Paducah Sun and Lyon County’s Herald Ledger about the history of American independence and the nation’s founding. He also provided commentary for WPSD, The Paducah Sun and the Kentucky Lantern on the annual Fancy Farm Picnic, an event he has followed for many years as an important part of Kentucky politics.

Clardy has been a regular contributor to Colonels of Truth, a Progress Kentucky podcast focused on Kentucky politics, public policy and current events. Recent discussions have included Kentucky’s growing data-center industry and conversations with Murray State alumnus and Kentucky state Rep. Adam Moore.

Clardy is also a frequent contributor to Forward Kentucky, where Murray State alumnus and journalist Berry Craig has interviewed him about Kentucky politics, elections and current political issues.

Clardy earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Tennessee at Martin, a master’s degree in public administration from Murray State University and a doctorate in historical studies from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. His areas of scholarly interest include American political history, U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War and Vietnam eras, the American presidency and comparative world religions. Clardy’s media work is part of his broader commitment to public scholarship and community engagement.

For more information on the Department of History at Murray State, visit murraystate.edu/history or follow them on social media @murraystatehistory.