By Blake Jackson
Jonathan Shell, Kentucky's incoming Agriculture Commissioner, is ready to trade political games for greener pastures – literally. Despite its young age of 35 and extensive political experience, Shell yearns to focus on the land and the people who work it, leaving the partisan bickering behind.
A tour of his family farm in Garrard County paints a picture of Shell's authenticity. Past fields of cover crops and a relic hemp watchtower, he proudly displays his prized pumpkin patch – boasting an eighth-place finish at the State Fair's largest pumpkin contest. His enthusiasm for farming is palpable, a stark contrast to the lukewarm tone he adopts when discussing the recent election.
His campaign slogan, "Stop Biden. Save Kentucky," resonated with voters despite some criticism. For Shell, it wasn't just about national politics; it was about protecting Kentucky farmers from unfavorable regulations. He believes his message resonated because it tapped into genuine concerns in the agricultural community.
But Shell's political savvy shouldn't be underestimated. He served as a young state representative, climbing the ladder to become the first Republican House Majority Floor Leader in a century. He even chaired Mitch McConnell's campaign and led a conservative think-tank.
So, how does an experienced politician reconcile ambition with a desire to escape the political fray? Shell credits his success to relationships, particularly his unwavering loyalty to Congressman James Comer. "If Jamie ran for Ag Commissioner again, I'd step aside," he declares. "He's my guy."
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, General, Sustainable Agriculture