Jonathan Russell announces run for Missouri State Congress

In a press release, Jonathan Russell announces his run for Missouri’s 160th House District:

NEOSHO, MO– The race for Missouri’s 160th House District officially began Thursday night with an overflow crowd of nearly 150 people who packed into the Neosho Newton County Public Library to support Jonathan Russell’s campaign kickoff. The energy was unmistakable as Newton County Prosecutor Will Lynch and former State Representative Marilyn Ruestman introduced Russell to an audience that included business owners, county and city elected officials, teachers, retirees, and seven members of the Newton County Republican Central Committee.

“This kind of crowd in late summer is unheard of,” said one local GOP leader. “It tells you people are ready for Jonathan’s kind of leadership.”

A Strong Beginning: Grassroots and Financial Support

Russell not only filled the room with supporters—he also enters the race with impressive early backing:

·       $9,500 raised from 42 respected community leaders in Newton and Jasper Counties.

·       Broad grassroots support from his years of service on the Republican Central Committee, Neosho School Board, and Library Board.

·       Early endorsements from neighbors and friends who see him as a leader rooted in community and conservative values.

“Jonathan has always been here for Neosho—whether it’s on the school board, helping at the library, or volunteering with the Lions Club. We know he’ll be here for us in Jefferson City,” said Mary House, a local resident who attended the kickoff.

Introduction by a Conservative Mentor

Former Rep. Marilyn Ruestman, who gave Russell his first experience in the State Capitol as a legislative assistant, highlighted Jonathan’s preparation for the special election.

“I’ve seen firsthand Jonathan’s work ethic and conservative convictions,” Ruestman told the crowd. “When you send him to Jefferson City, you’ll be sending someone who already knows the issues, knows the process, and knows how to deliver results for Southwest Missouri.”

Jonathan Russell: Proven Conservative Leadership

Jonathan Russell’s campaign is built on his record of service and results:

12-Year Member & Past President, Neosho School Board – fought DESE and Washington overreach, defended parental rights, and championed transparency.

2024 President, Missouri School Boards’ Association – led the effort to pull Missouri out of the liberal National School Boards Association when it tried to label parents as “domestic terrorists.”

Legislative Assistant in Jefferson City – gained direct experience in committees and on the House floor.

Small Businessman & REALTOR® – helps operate his family’s construction business and works in real estate.

Community Leader – founding chair of Bright Futures Neosho, served on the Library Board, and is active in the Lions Club.

Newton County GOP Central Committee Member for over a decade – built conservative majorities across Southwest Missouri.

His Platform: Fighting for Conservative Values

Russell told the crowd his campaign is about bringing common-sense conservative leadership to Jefferson City. His top issues include:

1.     Defending Conservative Values

• 100% pro-life – will fight to uphold Missouri’s abortion ban.
• Strong supporter of the Second Amendment.
• Will defend religious liberty and free speech.

 

2.     Protecting Education & Expanding School Choice

• Will fight to protect and improve our public schools
• Supports homeschooling, charter schools, and education savings accounts.
• Believes parents—not DESE or D.C. bureaucrats—should control education.

 

3.     Backing the Blue & Public Safety

• Pledged to increase respect and resources for law enforcement.
• Opposes soft-on-crime policies that put families at risk.

 

4.     Protecting Election Integrity

• Backs voter ID laws and transparent, fraud-proof elections.
• Will work to strengthen initiative petition laws.

 

5.     Cutting Taxes & Growing Missouri’s Economy

• Pro-growth, low-tax policies to attract businesses.
• Reduce red tape and eliminate wasteful spending.

 

6.     Stopping Out-of-State Liberal Takeovers

• Opposes billionaires from New York or California rewriting Missouri’s constitution through ballot initiatives.

Supporters Speak Out

The crowd was filled with neighbors eager to share why they believe Jonathan is the right choice:

·       Ken Copeland, former sheriff:
“Jonathan’s past experience and knowledge of Jefferson City and how it works would be a great benefit and he could hit the ground running.  He has a heart for people and truly wants to help them.  He is a servant and is involved in the community. He would be the only choice.”

·       Rose Buehner, retired local resident:
“Jonathan has worked hard for the people of Newton County for over twenty years.  From his time with Representative Ruestman to serving on the Neosho School Board, he’s served our community.  Jonathan has a heart for people and will listen to us.”

·       Kalan Hubbard, local REALTOR:
“I’ve known Jonathan for over twenty years. He has the heart of a servant, the work ethic of a farmer, and an unmatched desire to serve the people of his district to the best of his abilities. He will do extremely well in Jefferson City.”

A Closing Pledge to Southwest Missouri

Russell concluded his remarks with a heartfelt promise that drew strong applause:

“I love this community, and I will go to Jefferson City to fight as hard as I can to stand up for the traditional family values of Southwest Missouri. You can always count on me to stand up for the people of Newton and Jasper Counties, because this is my home, and I will never forget where I came from.”

Rooted in Southwest Missouri

Born and raised in Neosho, Russell graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a degree in Political Science. He worked in Jefferson City, then returned home to help run his family business, and serve his neighbors. His candidacy reflects decades of investment in the place he calls home.

“This isn’t about getting an office—it’s about service,” Russell told the press after the event. “I’ve been blessed to live here my entire life, and I’m ready to fight for our values in the State Capitol.”