Justice Horn announced this week that he will run for Jackson County Legislature 1st District At-Large in 2026. Horn says his campaign will focus on uniting county communities and addressing economic inequality.
Horn, a Blue Springs resident, launched his bid with what he calls a promise to “bring justice for all to Jackson County.” The district 1 at-large seat is currently held by Jalen Anderson, who will be term-limited from seeking re-election after voters passed term limits for county legislators in 2018.
The 1st District predominantly covers Northeast Jackson County including parts of Blue Springs, Independence, and NE KCMO.
“Every resident of Jackson County—no matter their neighborhood or background—deserves fair representation, equal opportunity, and a county government that works for everyone,” says Horn.
In his announcement, Horn said he plans to tackle what he calls “broken systems” he sees as holding residents back. His platform targets ‘sky-high’ property taxes, income inequality, and ensuring public safety works for all communities.
Background in Activism
Horn has experience in local government and advocacy. He served as chair of Kansas City’s LGBTQ Commission for several years, helping make KC an LGBTQ sanctuary city and incorporating all-gender bathrooms at the new Kansas City International Airport.
He presently serves on multiple boards, including the Jackson County Plan Commission, Jackson County Board of Zoning Adjustment, and Blue Springs Board of Adjustment. Horn was also a board director for the Jackson County Children’s Services Fund.
Horn also serves as UMKC’s student body president and is pursuing his second master’s degree in public administration and public policy. He holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from UMKC’s Henry Bloch School of Management.
This marks Horn’s second bid for the county legislature. In 2022, he lost the Democratic primary for District 1 to Manny Abarca, who went on to win the general election.
Platform Priorities
According to his announcement, Horn supports public transit expansion, reimagining sports stadium funding and increasing public housing options.
Property tax relief tops his priority list. Jackson County residents face some of the region’s highest property tax rates, particularly impacting Black homeowners in urban core neighborhoods.
“Jackson County deserves a government that lifts everyone up, creates opportunities for all, and meets the needs of over 700,000 residents who call this place home,” says Horn.
Horn also pledges to address income inequality through what he calls targeted economic development programs. His plan includes expanding job training and supporting minority-owned businesses, according to his campaign materials.
Electoral Landscape
Since the seat is an at-large bid, the whole of Jackson County will decide who takes over for Anderson, in 2026. The district typically leans Democratic but has seen competitive races, particularly in the August primaries. No other candidate has yet filed for the 2026 district 1 at-large race.
Horn’s early announcement gives him nearly two years to build a campaign across the county. His previous district 1 county race provides some foundation, though the at-large district differs from his 2022 bid.
Horn said his campaign will focus on grassroots organizing and community engagement. He plans extensive neighborhood visits and town halls.
Horn emphasized unity across racial and economic lines. He says his message targets both urban Kansas City neighborhoods and suburban eastern county communities.
“That’s why I’m running at-large, to unite all corners of this county and make Jackson County government work again.”
