Branden is ready to bring professionalism, partnership, and progress back to county government.

MEET BRANDEN HARALSON

About Branden

Early Life

Born and raised in Carl Junction, Missouri—a small suburb of Joplin—Branden’s first home was a wood cabin his father built by hand. His childhood was grounded in values the family lived every day: hard work, service, and perseverance. A true American success story, his father began his career as a groundskeeper at the local electrical utility, became a lineman while earning a business degree at night, and, after nearly 50 years, retired as one of the company’s top executives. His mother devoted her career to healthcare, pouring her energy and compassion into caring for patients. Even after her unexpected passing in 2024, her determination and generosity remain a constant source of inspiration for Branden. At 15, Branden faced an early turning point when the family’s closest friends lost their son Nick in a tragic car accident—a moment that profoundly shaped his sense of resilience.

Education & Early Career

After high school, Branden pursued his passion for music at UMKC Conservatory, earning a Bachelor of Music, and later at the University of Northern Iowa, where he completed a Master of Music. While in Iowa, he gained his first experience in politics through work on a U.S. Senate campaign—an introduction to public service that would shape the rest of his career. Upon returning to Kansas City in 2015, he joined his first presidential campaign, deepening his understanding of organizing and civic leadership. Immediately following, he transitioned to the nonprofit sector, seeking a more meaningful grassroots community impact while continuing to pursue his music career. Spending years in government relations at Nonprofit Connect, he honed his skills in public service and community building. Now six years into his current role at ArtsKC – Regional Arts Council, he is able to unite his passions for policy, service, and the arts. He also returned to national politics, contributing to a second presidential campaign and subsequent inaugural committee. For more than a decade, he has worked every day to strengthen the region’s creative economy, support local nonprofits, and champion policies that uplift the arts in every corner of our community.

Dedicated to Service

Branden’s commitment to service extends well beyond his professional work. He serves on the boards of Midwest Innocence Project, Ad Hoc Group Against Crime, and Missouri Citizens for the Arts—each reflecting his belief in equity, opportunity, and community building. His civic engagement also includes co-founding Heartland Alliance for Progress, teaching as an adjunct professor at UMKC Conservatory, and serving as a commissioner on Kansas City, Missouri’s Municipal Art Commission. When he’s not working or volunteering, he can be found in his LEGO studio with his cat Hänsel and dog Gretel close by.

Jackson County Priorities

Jackson County residents deserve leadership that listens, responds, and works for the people. Branden is ready to be that voice—your voice—bringing professionalism, transparency, and collaboration to county government.

For Branden, the work begins with tackling the property tax assessment process, an issue that has frustrated families and homeowners across our community. He is committed to working with the Missouri State Legislature to reform the laws that govern assessments, while also ensuring Jackson County’s budget provides the resources to implement those changes fairly. That means investing in on-site inspections, simplifying the appeals process—especially for seniors and working families—and giving voters the power to elect the county assessor rather than leaving it as an appointed position.

Branden’s vision doesn’t stop there. He believes a budget is more than numbers—it is a reflection of our values. That is why he will fight to ensure county dollars prioritize health care, mental health services, domestic violence support, and childcare assistance for those who need it most.

Public safety is another cornerstone of Branden’s commitment. He knows that a safe community requires strong partnerships and accountability. He will work to make sure county resources, such as COMBAT funds, are used effectively and in coordination with the Prosecutor’s Office, the Sheriff’s Department, and local police departments. By demanding transparency and collaboration, he will deliver accountability to the taxpayers who support these critical services.

Branden also understands that progress requires partnership. He is ready to work alongside city officials, his fellow legislators, the County Executive, and state leaders to put common-sense policies into action—policies that strengthen our neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and restore steady leadership in Jackson County.

As your Jackson County Legislator, Branden’s promise is simple: he will make government work for the people. He will stand with you, fight for your priorities, and ensure that Jackson County is a place where every resident can thrive.

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