Joshua Watkins is a Democratic member of the Kentucky House of Representatives, representing District 42 in Jefferson County, which includes parts of West Louisville, downtown, Old Louisville, and Germantown. Elected in 2024 after winning the Democratic primary and running unopposed in the general election following the retirement of incumbent Keturah Herron, he took office in January 2025. A notable achievement is his rapid rise to House Minority Whip in November 2025, making him the third-ranking leader in the Democratic caucus behind Minority Floor Leader Pamela Stevenson and Caucus Chair Lindsey Burke.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: BA in Community Leadership Development from the University of Kentucky ; MBA from North Central University.
• Professional Background: Worked nearly 11 years in Louisville Metro Government in strategy and human resources, including roles as Director of Strategic Initiatives and Director of Performance Improvement.
• Political Experience: Kentucky House of Representatives since 2025; House Minority Whip since November 2025; member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.