Jesse Kelly

Jesse Nolan Kelly (born July 20, 1981) is an American Iraq War veteran and was the 2010 Republican nominee and Tea Party favorite for Arizona's 8th congressional district. He lost to incumbent Gabrielle Giffords in a close race that was not called until almost three days after the polls closed.
Early life, education and career
Kelly graduated from Bozeman High School in Bozeman, Montana, in 1999. After attending Montana State University for one year, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2000 and was honorably discharged in 2004. While serving in the Marine Corps, Kelly saw combat as a squad leader in the Mortar Section of 1st Battalion 7th Marines. After he was discharged from military service, Kelly worked in his family construction business in Tucson, Arizona, managing infrastructure projects throughout the Southwestern United States.
2010 U.S. Congressional campaign
Kelly challenged Democratic incumbent Gabrielle Giffords. Libertarian nominee engineer Steven Stoltz was also on the ballot.
Kelly supports U.S. Congressman Paul Ryan's Roadmap plan. Former Governor Sarah Palin supported him publicly on Fox News.
In June 2010, Kelly had an event at which voters could shoot an assault rifle with the candidate, promoted as thus: "Get on Target for Victory in November; Help remove Gabrielle Giffords from office: Shoot a fully automatic M16 with Jesse Kelly".
Personal life
Kelly is married to Aubrey Kelly. They are the parents of three children, including an infant son, James, and are expecting their fourth child. They live in Marana, Arizona.

Main Menu

See Also

Main Menu