LANCASTER, Ky. — Tuesday night, Republican Johnathan Shell won close to 60% of the vote to become the next commissioner of agriculture.
“Thank you to all the elected officials here in Garrard County who have pushed and pushed and pushed in the Primary, in the General Election to ensure that we were able to get the votes that we needed to make a difference in this campaign,” Shell said during his victory speech.
It’s a seat vacated by outgoing Commissioner Ryan Quarles, who served two four-year terms.
A farmer himself, Shell said he’s paving the way for the next generation of Kentucky agriculture.
“It’s fighting the economic policies that have led to record inflation, crushing Kentucky farms and families with record high gas, groceries, mortgages, child care inputs to business. And the list can go on and on,” Shell said.
In his victory speech at the steps of Garrard County Clerk’s Office, he laid out his vision.
“From the very first day that my feet hit the floor as your agriculture commissioner, I will be your fighter for your opportunity, for your values and I know with you in my corner, we can accomplish this together. We can accomplish this for my kids, for your kids, and for generations to come,” Shell said.
Shell defeated his challenger, Democrat Sierra Enlow, a first-time candidate.