To the good people of Letcher County

It would be my honor to serve you as your next County Judge Executive. My desire for this county reaches far beyond culverts, gravel, backdoor deals, or under-the-table favors. The challenges we face run deeper than that—and so must our solutions

For far too long, I believe the people of Letcher County have been misled, overlooked, and, without better words, cheated out of the success and opportunity we deserve. Our county needs good jobs. Our county needs strong tax revenue. Our county needs established companies, factories, and industries that provide stable employment for our people.

We deserve beautiful recreation areas, family-friendly parks, destination attractions, shopping centers, hotels, and major food chains that serve both our residents and visitors. And with strong leadership—and the guidance of the Lord—I believe we can lift Letcher County out of the dust and darkness and into the light. Together, we can build a county that becomes the envy of those around us.

Prosperity does not come from one product or a single decision. Prosperity comes when leaders seek wisdom, trust in God’s direction, and work relentlessly for the people. He is the prospered of any nation, any land, any county, any home.

Let us come together. Let us stand united. We can make Letcher County a county to be proud of—a county respected by our neighbors, a county visited by travelers, a county our children want to stay in and build their future.

This election season let’s put aside our differences. Let’s refuse to sell our vote for a culvert, a load of gravel, or a political promise with a slap on the back. Instead, let us look toward the greater prize before us: a Letcher County that thrives.

That is why I humbly ask for your vote.
Thank you and may God richly bless you.

r own text.

Introducing Joseph Banks

Committed to Leading Letcher County Forward

Letcher County Kentucky

Meet the Candidate: Joseph Banks

Faith. Family. Fiscal Strength.

Joseph Banks is a lifelong Letcher Countian whose story is built on faith, hard work, and service. From the coal mines of Eastern Kentucky to the pulpit, and from business ownership to community leadership, Joseph has spent his life serving others and standing up for what’s right. His journey — from a young coal miner to a respected pastor and successful businessman — embodies the spirit of perseverance that defines our Appalachian people.
From the Coalfields to Community Leadership
At just 17 years old, Joseph began working in the coal industry as a rock picker. He worked his way up as a mechanic, tipple attendant, and finally as an underground coal miner for Southeast Coal Company, where he worked for 8 years. After a life-threatening auto accident, Joseph transitioned to a new path, joining Frazier’s Farmer Supply, where he served the public for many years and became a trusted face throughout Letcher County.

In 1999, he helped form Appalachian Truss Inc. in Knott County, serving as Vice President/sec, Tres. until 2010, When the housing market collapsed, Joseph returned to his roots, working for the Office of Mine Safety and Licensing (formerly the Department of Mines and Minerals) as a trainer in Pikeville, Kentucky. Later, he moved to Danville, Kentucky, where he served as a non-coal inspector for the state of KY.

Faith That Never Faltered

Even while living and working in Central Kentucky, Joseph never left his true calling behind. For nearly 30 years, he has faithfully pastored Faith Independent Baptist Church in Letcher County. Every week — no matter the distance or the weather — Joseph drove back home to preach, serve, and lead his congregation. That kind of dedication reflects his character and priorities. His ministry reflects his heart for people and his belief that leadership means showing up — consistently and compassionately.

A New Chapter: Building for the Future

While working for the state, Joseph began a part-time business helping people plan for retirement and manage their money wisely. That passion grew into what is now Joseph Banks Wealth & Retirement Solutions, headquartered in Whitesburg, Kentucky. Through this business, Joseph has spent more than a decade helping families safeguard their savings, plan for their futures, and achieve financial security. His success is built on faith, integrity, and service.
A Vision for Letcher County’s Future
Joseph’s campaign for County Judge/Executive was born from a deep desire to restore trust, transparency, and progress in local government. After the devastating 2022 flood, millions of dollars were allocated for recovery — yet many still ask where that money went. Joseph intends to find out and ensure that future funding reaches the people it was meant to help.

His priorities include:
• Economic Growth – Recruit new businesses and industries to Letcher County.
• Tourism Expansion – Unite tourism committees under one actionable plan with measurable goals.
• Fiscal Responsibility – Eliminate wasteful spending and modernize county budgeting.
• Community Strength – Ensure roads, waterways, and utilities are maintained by qualified personnel.
Rooted in Family, Guided by Faith
Behind every strong leader is a strong family, and Joseph’s family is his greatest source of pride. His wife, Soraya Banks, is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and business owner. Together, they have built a family rooted in faith, service, and perseverance.

Their children have carried those same values into their own lives:
• Dr. Sarah Zalone – A physician with a thriving practice in Mount Sterling, Kentucky. Her husband, Patrick Zalone, serves proudly as a Kentucky State Police Officer. They are parents to three beautiful daughters — Allison, Hannah, and Emmy (Emma).
• Adam Banks – A college professor at the University of West Virginia and a college in Lexington. He is also the creator and host of the podcast 'Off the Cuff with Adam Banks.'
• Rebecca Banks – Serves with the State of Kentucky as a Suicide Prevention Specialist, dedicating her career to saving lives.
• Elijah Banks – Currently enrolled at Alice Lloyd College, studying Business Administration while pursuing his passion for music as a singer and performer.

Joseph and Soraya are proud grandparents who cherish their family and the values that unite them — faith, hard work, and compassion for others.
“I’ve lived the struggles and blessings of Letcher County. I know what it means to work underground, to serve people, and to build something from the ground up. Our county deserves leadership that listens, plans, and delivers — with integrity, accountability, and heart.”

Joseph Banks for Letcher County Judge/Executive
Letcher County, Kentucky  888-352-3113 

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15 EAST MAIN ST 

WHITESBURG KY 41858

(606) 335-6057

EMAIL: electjosephbanks@gmail.com

A Vision for a Brighter Future

Proverbs 29:18 

“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.”

Proverbs 29:2 

    “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.”