Name: Lesley “Les” Jenkins-Mackey
Party: Democrat
Age: 26
Education: Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (2017); Apollo High School (2018); Bachelor of Science in Occupational Science, Eastern Kentucky University (2022); and Master of Business Administration (MBA), Fort Hays State University (2024)
Experience: Outside of my professional capacity, I am an active member of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce (representing Thomason’s Barbecue) and Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP).
Previously, while living out of state, I served as a chamber representative for The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, on behalf of the Fort Hays State University Office of the President. During that time, I also served on the university’s Budget Committee, where I provided input and recommendations regarding tuition and fees supporting a more than $150 million-dollar institutional budget. These experiences strengthened my understanding of public finance, accountability, and collaborative decision-making.
Current Occupations: Project Manager, ProspectCloud; Online Business Adjunct, Fort Hays State University; and Cross Country and Track Coach, Henderson County Schools
Family: Husband, Harrison Jenkins-Mackey; Parents, David and Diana Mackey; and Parents-in-law, Josh and Becky Jenkins
Why did you decide to run for this office?
Like many residents, I pay close attention to the conversations happening in our community—both online and in person. It became clear that there is the need for a moderate, steady voice that can calmly assess county challenges and focus on practical solutions. Through my education, professional work, and community involvement, I have spent years preparing to uphold the oath of office and to serve the public interest.
Since moving back home to be closer to family and friends, I have intentionally invested my time in the community. This includes attending chamber events on behalf of Thomason’s Barbecue, coaching cross country and track across multiple grade levels in our school system, and serving on the Inner City Improvement Plan’s Youth Engagement and Enrichment Committee. These experiences reinforced my desire to step forward and serve Henderson County at this time.
Why do you believe you are the best choice for this seat?
I bring a balanced, practical approach to leadership focused on smart planning, transparency, and collaboration. I am not interested in extremes; I am interested in thoughtful, data-driven decision-making that serves the long-term interests of Henderson County. My leadership style is grounded in listening, accountability, and respect for both our residents and the land they live on.
By actively engaging with community members across the political spectrum and attending both Henderson County Republican Party and Democratic Party meetings, I have demonstrated my commitment to representing all voices. I believe progress should be inclusive, and I am dedicated to ensuring that decisions made at the county level benefit all residents.
What are your top priorities for the next term, if elected?
My top priorities include supporting responsible industrial projects, fostering sustainable economic growth, expanding and improving our county parks, and taking care of our home. Smart growth, environmental stewardship in our rural areas, and community-focused investment will guide my decisions.
I am committed to economic development that will enhance our community, not diminish it. We must prioritize industrial growth to support our residents’ livelihoods while ensuring environmental impacts are addressed through mindful development.
I also believe it is important to focus not only on what we oppose, but on what we actively want to build in Henderson County. Our local tourism motto, “Discover Your Nature,” reflects the value of our outdoor assets, and we must invest in making that promise meaningful by enhancing parks and outdoor spaces throughout the county. I believe we can grow jobs and industry while preserving our night skies, natural quiet, and green spaces that are essential to our quality of life.
A final brief statement to support your candidacy.
I am running to build a future where progress and preservation go hand in hand. With thoughtful leadership, we can create a county that truly reflects the values and hopes of its people by growing our economy, maintaining budgets, and protecting our natural beauty.
I would be honored to serve and work collaboratively to move our community forward. A thriving community is one where everyone has the means to live well. I am dedicated to creating the kind of local prosperity where our neighbors and our children not only live here, but thrive here for a lifetime.
Editor’s note: Jenkins-Mackey’s father-in-law, Josh Jenkins, serves on the board of West Kentucky Public Service Journalism, Inc., which is the publisher of the Hendersonian.
