Jay Wasson

Jay Wasson (born October 24, 1956) is an American politician and businessman who served as a member of the Missouri Senate for the 20th district from 2011 to 2019.^[1] Previously, Wasson served four terms in the Missouri House of Representatives (2002–2010).^[2]

Jay Wasson
Member of the Missouri Senate from the 20th district
In office January 5, 2011 – November 1, 2018
Preceded by	Dan Clemens
Succeeded by	Eric Burlison
Member of the Missouri House of Representatives from the 141st district
In office January 8, 2003 – January 5, 2011
Preceded by	Judy Berkstresser
Succeeded by	Kevin Elmer
Personal details
Born	(1956-10-24) October 24, 1956 (age 69) Springfield, Missouri, U.S.
Party	Republican
Spouse	Retha
Education	Drury University

Early life and education

Born in nearby Springfield, Jay Wasson was raised in Nixa, Missouri. His ancestors settled in Nixa in 1867.^[3] After graduation from Nixa Public High School in 1974, Wasson attended Drury University.^[4]

Career

Outside of politics, Wasson works as a real estate developer.^{[citation needed]} He is also a company officer for St. John's Health Systems, Inc.^{[citation needed]}

Missouri Legislature

Wasson first entered statewide politics in 2002, winning the first of four consecutive terms to the Missouri House of Representatives. Term-limited by Missouri law from running for Representative again, Wasson mounted a successful campaign in 2010 for the Missouri Senate, defeating Democrat Terry Traw to replace term-limited Senator Dan Clemens.^[5][6] During his tenure in the Senate, Wasson served as chair of the Economic Development Committee.^[7]

2022 congressional election

Main article: 2022 United States House of Representatives elections § Missouri

In September 2021, Wasson declared his candidacy for Missouri's 7th congressional district in the 2022 election.^[8]

Personal life

Wasson and his wife, Retha, live in Nixa.^[3]