Jonathan Shell
About Jonathan Shell
Jonathan Shell Agriculture Commissioner
Jonathan Shell currently serves as the Commissioner of Agriculture. In this role, Shell focuses on promoting agricultural practices and supporting farmers in Kentucky. His responsibilities include overseeing agricultural policies, ensuring food safety, and boosting agricultural exports. Shell's background as a fifth-generation farmer equips him with a deep understanding of the agricultural community's needs and challenges.
Fifth Generation Farmer Jonathan Shell
Jonathan Shell is a fifth-generation farmer, continuing a long family tradition of agricultural involvement. He and his father, Gary, own and operate Shell Farms and Greenhouses in Garrard County. The farm grows flowers, corn, and pumpkins, and is also involved in raising cattle. This extensive hands-on experience on the farm provides Shell with a practical perspective on farming and agriculture-related issues.
Kentucky House of Representatives Youngest Member
In 2012, Jonathan Shell was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives, making him the youngest member of the General Assembly at that time. His early entry into state politics marked the beginning of his influence on Kentucky's legislative processes. As a representative, Shell focused on a variety of issues including job creation, farmer support, and policies against opioid trafficking.
Jonathan Shell Republican Leadership Engagement
Before the 2016 election, Jonathan Shell was chosen by Republican leadership to lead the recruitment of candidates, a strategic move that contributed to Kentucky electing its first Republican House Majority in almost 100 years. Following this achievement, Shell was elected as Kentucky’s first-ever Republican House Majority Floor Leader. In this role, he developed and executed legislative strategies to introduce policies centered on economic development and public safety.