Darrell Atchison announces candidacy for State Representative to replace Rep. Jeff Shawan

A candidate has entered the race for the District 153 seat that will be vacated in 2021 by Rep. Jeff Shawan of Poplar Bluff.

Local businessman Darrell Atchison of Williamsville says he will seek the office in the August 2020 primary. Shawan is not seeking re-election.

District 153 includes Ripley, Wayne, Butler and Carter counties.

“I have always believed in serving my neighbors and fellow citizens,” Atchison, 55, said in press release. “I have lived in this region for practically my whole life. I care about the people here and what happens in our community. I understand the challenges and opportunities that await us going forward, especially in addressing the issues that our rural communities face.

“The people here deserve a voice in Jefferson City that places the needs of the region first. I am passionate about listening to the citizens of the region and taking our message to Jefferson City.”

Concerns ranging from economic development to agriculture and education will be among his priorities if elected, said Atchison. If Atchison is successful in the August 2020 primary, he will move on to the November general election.

“Our region abounds in natural resources that can help create jobs, businesses and prosperity for residents here. However, that means making sure that our rural communities have a seat at the table,” he said.

Public schools and rural infrastructure are also areas of concern, according to Atchison.

“We need to make sure our agricultural and logging industries are not infringed upon by government regulations,” he said. “We have to find ways to protect residents from feral hogs and invasive species. We must constantly work to protect the unborn and ensure Missourians’ right to bear arms is protected.”

A retired Missouri Army National Guard Major, Atchison served in the National Guard from 1981-2004.

He graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in 1982, before going on to earn an Associate of Arts Degree from Three Rivers College and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Tarkio College.

Atchison currently works as a financial adviser for Modern Woodmen of America, a position he has held since 2008. He was co-owner of Four A Enterprises, Inc., from 1981 to 2008, where he served as president from 1996-2008.

Atchison is also president of both the Williamsville Lions Club and the Black River Volunteer Fire District Board. He serves as the treasurer of the Greenville School Foundation and is a member of the NRA.

He has served on the board of Directors of the Ozark Border Electric Cooperative since 2009, and has been the cooperative’s president since 2015.

Atchison and his wife of 25 years, Joanna, have two daughters, Mary Jo and Mariah. Both girls graduated from Greenville High School and went on to attend Three Rivers College. Atchison and his wife attend Fellowship General Baptist Church