Cherlyn Smith

Cherlyn Smith's career experience includes working as a technical writer. She earned a bachelor's degree from Everest University in 2006.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am running for State Representative because I believe in our community's potential and am passionate about making a difference. My dedication to public service and extensive experience qualify me to address the challenges we face. My business experience includes serving as a Technical Writer and IT Auditor Consultant at TEK Systems for the past four years. From 2008 to 2022, I was a Hardin County small business owner, successfully operating a screen printing shop, event hall, and consulting firm, showcasing my entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to local economic growth. My public service record includes 21 years as a Drug and Alcohol Prevention Coordinator and Budget Officer with the Department of Defense. I focused on prevention programs and managed budgets, demonstrating my commitment to public health and fiscal responsibility. I also previously served as a Case Manager for the State of Florida in the Welfare Reform Program, helping individuals navigate the welfare system and achieve self-sufficiency. Since 2006, I have been active in this community with The Friends of the CAV 16th Cavalry Regiment (Fort Knox), the Family Readiness Group, Order of The Eastern Star Morning Glory #35, Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, the Hardin County Women’s Democratic Club, the Elizabethtown Garden Club, and the Radcliff Small Business Alliance. Together, we can create a brighter future for Hardin County and beyond, and I ask for your support and your vote to make this vision a reality.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

In my professional and volunteer work, I have seen firsthand the critical importance of community health and wellness, driving my tireless advocacy for policies that support public health, such as increased funding for healthcare services, mental health programs, and preventive care initiatives. As your state representative, I will prioritize policies that ensure access to quality healthcare, promote preventive care, and support mental health services. Access to healthcare includes access to reproductive healthcare and the freedom to make our own decisions. I believe that a healthy community is a strong community, and I am committed to advocating for resources and initiatives that will improve our well-being.Robust economic development is essential to create jobs and provide opportunities for all residents. With my background in both the public and private sectors, including running local businesses, I understand the challenges faced by small business owners and the importance of a thriving local economy. I will work to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and implement policies that foster economic growth and job creation. Improving our infrastructure, from roads and bridges to broadband internet, is essential for economic growth and attracting new businesses. I will work to develop a business-friendly environment that encourages investment and innovation.Ensuring that every child has access to quality education is paramount. I strongly believe in public education and am committed to securing increased funding for our schools. I will fight for teachers--the backbone of our education system--for better salaries, resources, and the professional development opportunities they need to succeed. I will also advocate for improved facilities and the materials students need to be successful. My involvement with the VIVID Girls Mentoring Group reflects my dedication to youth empowerment and education. I will advocate for after-school programs, mentorship initiatives, and extracurricular activities that support student growth and development.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

In addition to the three areas I named above, I am passionate about investing in crime prevention programs, including youth outreach and substance abuse prevention, to reduce crime rates and improve public safety. I will advocate for mental health services to be integrated into public safety initiatives, ensuring that individuals in crisis receive the appropriate care and support.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Being an elected official is a tremendous responsibility. Government is there to serve the people, and therefore, elected officials must be transparent, accessible, and responsive. That means giving constituents a chance to be heard, listening to their concerns, and acting on them. As your representative in the Kentucky House of Representatives, you can count on me to be open, honest, and sensitive to the needs of the people in this community. Our state representative has a responsibility to help build a strong community through active engagement and collaboration with others. I have a proven track record of bringing people together through various community events and initiatives. As your representative, I will continue to foster a sense of unity and ensure that all voices are heard. My goal is to serve you well and make you proud of our district's leadership.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

As a teenager, my first job was a volunteering as a candy striper at Kenner Regional Medical Center in Kenner, Louisiana for two years.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

C-FAIR, Reproductive Rights for Kentucky PAC, KEPAC - Kentucky Educators' Political Action Committee, Sierra Club - Kentucky Chapter