Background
Joel Mace earned a high school diploma from the Lighthouse Christian Academy. Mace's career experience includes working as a detective.[1]
In their own words
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
MEET JOEL MACE
Joel Mace is a lifelong Missourian and proud resident of Southwest Missouri. As a detective for the Newton County Sheriff's Office, he works hard to keep our community safe from wrongdoers. As a devoted husband and father of four, Mace wants to ensure that our rural values aren't eroded away by radical leftist agendas.
Mace serves as treasurer of the SWMO FOP Lodge #27, is active in the McDonald County Republican Club, and is a member of both the Missouri Firearms Coalition and the NRA. He is also involved with the Missouri Cattlemen's Association in Newton and McDonald counties.
As state representative, Joel Mace will always uphold free speech and gun rights, defend life and liberty, and fight the "woke" agenda that is attempting to take over our nation. With his career in law enforcement, Mace will always Back the Blue and ensure public safety remains a priority. He will work to reduce government waste and cut burdensome taxes for hardworking families. Mace will also advocate for Missouri students to receive the best possible education by increasing access to personalized options.
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?
Supporting law enforcement, first responders, and public safety is a top priority for me. I will advocate for strong funding to ensure officers and emergency personnel have the training, equipment, and resources needed to do their jobs safely and effectively. I also believe in supporting the people behind the badge by promoting mental health resources and improving recruitment and retention through better pay and working conditions. Building trust between agencies and the community is essential, and I will support efforts that strengthen communication and cooperation. I am committed to standing with those who serve and ensuring our communities remain safe.Supporting agriculture, farmers, ranchers, and producers is vital to our community and economy. I will advocate for policies that protect family farms, promote fair markets, and reduce unnecessary regulations that place burdens on producers. Ensuring access to resources, infrastructure, and reliable water and land use policies is essential for long-term success. I also support efforts to strengthen rural communities and expand opportunities for the next generation in agriculture. By standing with those who feed and fuel our nation, we can preserve our agricultural heritage and ensure a strong future.Cutting government waste is important to me because taxpayers deserve accountability and responsible stewardship of their hard-earned money. I believe in prioritizing essential services while eliminating unnecessary spending, inefficiencies, and duplication across agencies. By promoting transparency and careful budgeting, we can ensure funds are used effectively to support public safety, infrastructure, and core government functions. Reducing waste not only saves money but also builds trust in government and ensures we are leaving a stronger financial future for the next generation.
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
I am passionate about public policies that strengthen public safety, support law enforcement and first responders, and protect the most vulnerable in our communities. I care deeply about responsible government, including cutting waste and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used effectively. I also prioritize supporting agriculture and rural communities, recognizing their vital role in our economy and way of life. Additionally, I believe in policies that promote accountability, fairness in the justice system, and opportunities for families to thrive in safe, strong communities.
What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?
The Southwest Missouri Fraternal Order of Police-Lodge #27 has endorsed my campaign and I expect many more to be announced very soon!
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.
Source(opens in new tab)