Rose Democratic Larry Saunders Coalition government The 1996 Kentucky Senate election was held on November 5, 1996.

Despite the Democratic Party maintaining a majority of 20 seats, five members joined all 18 Republicans to elect Larry Saunders the President of the Senate.

† – Incumbent not seeking re-election Seats where the margin of victory was under 10%: Richard "Richie" Sanders was elected in June 1996 following the resignation of Walter Arnold Baker.

Incumbent senator Richard "Richie" Sanders won reelection, defeating Democrat John "Jake" D. Dickinson.

Incumbent senator Richard L. "Dick" Roeding won reelection, defeating Democrat Sandra Easton.

Incumbent senator Tim Shaughnessy won reelection, defeating Republican Barbara "Bobbie" Holsclaw.

Incumbent senator Walter "Doc" Blevins won reelection, defeating Republican Randy Memmer.