By Blake Jackson
Kentucky's race for the next Commissioner of Agriculture in 2023 features Republican Jonathan Shell and Democrat Sierra Enlow. Shell, a former Kentucky House of Representatives member from Garrard County, served as the majority leader, making him the state's youngest majority leader in history. Enlow, on the other hand, is a first-time candidate with a background on a multi-generational family farm in LaRue County. She holds degrees in Community & Leadership Development and Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky and works as an economic development consultant.
In the primary elections, Shell emerged as the Republican nominee after defeating two challengers. Enlow, running unopposed, secured the Democratic nomination. The Commissioner of Agriculture plays a crucial role in promoting Kentucky's agriculture sector and managing the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. The position is currently held by Ryan Quarles, who cannot seek a third term due to state law.
Both candidates recently participated in an interview on In Focus Kentucky to discuss their campaign platforms and aspirations for the Commissioner of Agriculture role, highlighting the importance of this position in supporting Kentucky's agricultural community.
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Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy