Joshua Jedidiah Watkins (born September 27, 1985) is an American politician and member of the Kentucky House of Representatives since January 2025. He represents Kentucky's 42nd House district, which comprises part of Jefferson County. He has served as House Minority Whip since November 2025.

Political career

Watkins was elected unopposed in the 2024 Kentucky House of Representatives election following the retirement of incumbent representative Keturah Herron to run for the Kentucky Senate. He defeated two other candidates in the May primary election.

In November 2025, Minority Caucus Chair Al Gentry stepped down from his leadership position. Incumbent Minority Whip Lindsey Burke was selected to succeed Gentry as caucus chair, and Watkins was selected to succeed Burke as whip.

Electoral history

2024

Democratic primary results
PartyCandidateVotes%
DemocraticJoshua Watkins2,10353.0
DemocraticJonathan Musselwhite95124.0
DemocraticJack W. Walker91423.0
Total votes3,968100.0
2024 Kentucky House of Representatives 42nd district election
PartyCandidateVotes%
DemocraticJoshua WatkinsUnopposed
Total votes12,350100.0
Democratic hold
Kentucky House of Representatives
Preceded byKeturah HerronMember of the Kentucky House of Representatives from the 42nd district 2025–presentSucceeded byincumbent