After a year raising his national profile, Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky., was recognized by TIME Magazine’s TIME100 Next list, which recognizes rising stars in politics, business, entertainment, news and more.

TIME noted Beshear’s reelection in a deep red state, his “portrayal of post-partisan leadership” and his making the short list to be Kamala Harris’ potential running mate as reasons for the selection. TIME also noted his popularity as a governor and a list of achievements, including legalizing medical marijuana and expanding Medicaid to cover vision and dental care.

“And his commitment to reproductive rights has been as steady as his presence during a slate of floods and tornadoes, making the 46-year-old Beshear a winner of praise well beyond Kentucky,” the TIME article said.

Beshear said he was grateful for the recognition in a post on X.

“I’m honored to be included on the 2024 #Time100Next list with such phenomenal people. This honor is a testament to the great work we’re doing in Kentucky and the rest of the world is noticing. Thank you, @TIME,” the governor shared.

The second-term governor was named to the list alongside notable figures including singer Sabrina Carpenter, NFL quarterback C.J. Stroud, CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins and Republican National Committee co-chair Lara Trump.

In its fifth year, the magazine said the TIME100 Next list has no age requirements, and that the majority of the people on this year’s list are people of color; more than half of them are women.