ABOUT GEOFF

“Jackson County deserves a legislator who is one of them – someone who is from our area, grew up in a working-class family, and strives every day to improve the lives of others. I will use my experience and knowledge of our local government to move Jackson County forward. I will be accessible to the people, hold other county officials accountable, and help achieve immediate and long-term improvements for our communities.”

Geoff Gerling is a sixth generation Missourian and lifelong resident of Jackson County. He is a graduate of Raytown High School and the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he majored in Interpersonal Communications and Psychology, served two terms as the Student Government Association President, and was the Legislative Chairman for the Associated Students of the University of Missouri lobbying group.

After college, he held a variety of leadership roles as a fundraiser including Chief Fundraising Officer for a professional theater company in Kansas City and Executive Director of the Midwest Innocence Project in Kansas City. Gerling was later named Executive Director of the Jackson County Democratic Committee serving in that role for nearly six years and he now serves as the Committeeman for Ward 22. He was also the Government Affairs Chairman for the South Kansas City Alliance and served on their Board of Directors for six years.

Over the years, he has served on a number of other boards and commissions representing people across the county. Geoff has also been a contributing writer to the Martin City Telegraph and guest on local podcasts to discuss public policy and current events.

More than the politics, Geoff feels a commitment to the policies championed by the Democratic Party, especially equal rights, health care access, equitable tax policy, labor rights and public education. He always wants to encourage community activism and hear from leading voices, especially in underrepresented neighborhoods.

Geoff resides in south Kansas City and is a dedicated fan of the Royals, Chiefs, Mizzou, movies and classic rock. When he is not working to advance progressive causes or watching a game at Kauffman Stadium, he loves to cook and take advantage of our local parks and golf courses. He lives with his wife, Dr. Thuylinh Pham of Children's Mercy Kansas City, and their baby daughter Gemma.

ENDORSEMENTS

State Representative Mark Sharp
State Representative Annette Turnbaugh
Grandview Alderman John Maloney
Grandview Alderman Joe Runions
Lee's Summit City Councilmember Hillary Shields
Greater Kansas City Fire Fighters Local 42