Josh Trout is Working Hard to Bring Fresh Voice, New Vision to Lawrence County Fiscal Court
Special to the Lazer
Folks across Buchanan, Brammer Gap, Deephole, and Fallsburg are seeing a familiar face out on the campaign trail these days as Josh Trout makes his case for Magistrate in District 1 ahead of the May 19, 2026 Republican primary.
Trout is a graduate of Lawrence County High School and says his decision to run comes from a desire to give back to the community that raised him. He and his wife, Courtney, are raising their son, Ryman, here at home, and he says that perspective keeps him grounded in what matters most to local families.
“I’m out every day talking to people, and at the end of the day, they just want the basics done right,” Trout said. “They want good roads, dependable services, and a county government that’s looking out for them.”
Those conversations, he says, have shaped the focus of his campaign. Trout notes that one of the top concerns he hears time and again is the condition of local roads—something he knows firsthand from his 13 years with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet at the Lawrence County State Highway Department, where he worked in highway maintenance and administrative services.
“I’ve worked on these roads, and I know what it takes to keep them up,” Trout said. “People are worried about potholes, drainage, and making sure repairs don’t get put off. That’s something I take seriously.”
In addition to his public service background, Trout has worked in management roles in several businesses, primarily in the coal industry. He says that experience has given him a practical understanding of budgeting, workforce needs, and the importance of keeping jobs in the county.
He is also active in the community as a member of Apperson Lodge #195 and the El Hasa Shriners.
If elected, Trout says his priorities will center on maintaining infrastructure, supporting economic development, and keeping taxes low.
“I’ll give this job everything I’ve got,” he said. “I want to help make sure Lawrence County has the best local government possible—one that takes care of its roads, finds common-sense solutions to issues, brings in new opportunities for jobs, and respects taxpayers.”
The Republican primary will be held Tuesday, May 19, with early voting scheduled for May 14–16. Trout says he’s grateful for the encouragement he’s received so far and is asking voters in District 1 for their support on Election Day.
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