 The "Lexington Herald-Leader" speculated that Farmer could run for governor, secretary of state, or lieutenant governor on a ticket with Senate President David Williams.On September 1, 2010, Williams and Farmer announced that they would run as a ticket for governor and lieutenant governor, respectively.Shortly after the announcement, Farmer began to face criticism for his use of state funds during difficult economic times that resulted in austerity measures in most state government agencies.