R. Travis Brenda says he is the fourth generation to live and work on his family farm in Garrard county. These close ties to the area, including his devotion to Church on the Rock in Berea, are part of the reason why he is running to represent the area in Frankfort.
The Republican-aligned teacher said he prayed about the decision to run for State Representative for Madison, Garrard, and Rockcastle counties, and when another Republican was not on the ballot (besides incumbent Shell) he felt it was time to take the plunge and run for the seat. Now he will be facing off against Mary Renfro in the November Elections.
Brenda explained that he has multiple degrees, and has been teaching in Rockcastle county since the late nineties. He elaborates that it is this career path that makes him a good fit to represent District 71 at the Capitol, as he knows all too well the problems with the pension system. Brenda listed off other issues such as paid time off and benefits for teachers and state workers that some might not be aware of that are also in jeopardy.
He also spoke on the drug crisis, as well as the changes in the hemp industry, which is well established in his area. Brenda reiterated that there needs to be much more research on hemp, especially as of late as the oils are being used for medicinal purposes instead of the legalized industrial hemp.
