Josh West (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Josh West
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| Majority Leader of the Oklahoma House of Representatives | |
| In office January 5, 2021 – January 3, 2023 |
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| Preceded by | Mike Sanders |
| Succeeded by | Tammy West |
| Member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives from the 5th district |
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| Assumed office January 9, 2017 |
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| Preceded by | Doug Cox |
| Personal details | |
| Born | September 19, 1976 Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Elizabeth West |
| Children | 4 |
| Education | Missouri Valley College (BA) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States Army |
| Years of service | 1996-2005 |
| Battles/wars |
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| Awards | Bronze Star (with valor) Purple Heart Meritorious Service Medal Army Commendation Medal (5) Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Army Service Ribbon Afghanistan Campaign Medal Global War on Terrorism Service Medal Iraqi Campaign Medal Combat Action Badge Air Assault Badge Expert Field Medical Badge |
Josh West was born on September 19, 1976. He is an American politician and a military veteran. Since 2017, he has served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. He represents the 5th district of Oklahoma.
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Early Life and Education
Josh West was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He grew up in Grove, Oklahoma. In 1995, he graduated from Grove High School. He then went to Missouri Valley College. He attended college on a football scholarship.
Military Service
In 1996, West started training for the United States Army. He finished his training in 1997. During his time in the Army, he served in places like Afghanistan and Iraq.
On October 16, 2003, West was injured while serving in Karbala, Iraq. He was shot in both legs and his abdomen. He spent a year recovering and doing therapy. In 2005, he was medically retired from the Army. He served for nine years. For his service, he received several awards, including the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart.
Political Career in Oklahoma
Becoming a State Representative
In 2016, Josh West decided to run for the Oklahoma House of Representatives. The previous representative, Doug Cox, could not run again. West won the Republican primary election. He then won the general election against Matt Nowlin. This made him the representative for District 5.
Serving in the Legislature
During his first term (2017-2019), West served on several important committees. These included:
- Agriculture & Rural Development
- Children, Youth & Family Services
- Veterans and Military Affairs (where he was Vice Chair)
He was re-elected in 2018. During his second term (2019-present), he continued to serve on committees:
- Appropriations and Budget Committee
- Rules Committee
- Tourism Committee
Political Views
Josh West's political views are generally similar to the Oklahoma Republican Party. He supports gun rights and is a member of the National Rifle Association. He also believes that local communities should have more control over their schools.
Personal Life
Josh West is married to Elizabeth West. She is a veteran of the United States Air Force. They have four children together.
