FRANKFORT (Jan. 1, 2024) - Shell was sworn in at a ceremony in Lancaster, Kentucky at the Garrard County Courthouse. He was surrounded by friends and family including his wife Brooke and children Jaxson, Lydia, Reagan, and Gracelyn.

“Food. Faith. Family. These three words sum up Kentucky agriculture. They are what our farmers focus on everyday. I’m honored by the opportunity to serve our state as Ag Commissioner and I’m ready to get to work fighting for our farm families and our Kentucky values.” Shell told the crowd upon taking the oath of office.

Among those in attendance to mark the beginning of Commissioner Shell’s term was United States Congressman, and Chair of the US House’s Oversight Committee, James Comer.

“I’m proud of all my friend Jonathan has accomplished. It is an honor to be here today as he takes the oath of office. As a former Commissioner of Agriculture, I know he has his work cut out for him. No one is more up to the challenge of fighting for Kentucky agriculture than Jonathan Shell.” Comer said.

Shell becomes Kentucky’s 36th Commissioner of Agriculture. He is a fifth generation farmer. He will also participate in a public swearing in ceremony tomorrow at the State Capitol.