James Comer (KY-1)

Biography

James R. Comer Jr., born on August 19, 1972, in Carthage, Tennessee, is a Republican politician representing Kentucky's 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2016. The district spans 35 counties from the Mississippi River to Central Kentucky. Comer currently serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, where he advocates for reducing waste, fraud, and abuse in government.

Raised in Monroe County, Kentucky, Comer developed a passion for agriculture early on. After graduating from Western Kentucky University in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, he entered the business world by purchasing his first farm. He is married to Tamara Jo, and they have three children: Reagan, Harlan, and Aniston.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Western Kentucky University, 1993

Political Experience

• Kentucky House of Representatives: Elected in 2000, Comer served six terms representing District 53. During his first term, he was named National Republican Freshman Legislator of the Year.

• Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture: Elected in 2011, Comer addressed scandals within the department, restored confidence, and promoted rural economic development, including spearheading the successful effort to legalize industrial hemp in Kentucky.

• U.S. House of Representatives: Elected in 2016 to represent Kentucky's 1st Congressional District. He has been re-elected in subsequent terms and currently serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

Notable Achievements

• House Committee on Oversight and Accountability: As Chairman, Comer leads efforts to reduce government waste, fraud, and abuse, and to enhance transparency and accountability.

• 2018 Farm Bill Conference Committee: Played a pivotal role in negotiating and passing the 2018 Farm Bill, providing stability for American farmers.

• Legislative Initiatives: Sponsored and passed legislation aimed at lifting burdensome regulations, bolstering government accountability, and creating opportunities for American families.

Comer's career reflects a commitment to conservative values, agricultural development, and government accountability.