The President of the San Jacinto College Central Campus Republicans will put his political experience to the test when he runs for Deer Park City Council in the 2014 election.

Jarrod Keeling will be running for Position 5 of the six-member council. Beckie Stockstill-Cobb will be the incumbent candidate running against him in the May race.

Keeling said that if elected, his primary focus will be on improving the conditions of community parks, encouraging voter participation, addressing the drainage issues, and reducing the city’s spending of taxpayer money.

“I really want to give back to my community.  I’ve lived in Deer Park since I was 10 years old…I’ve gotten to experience such great opportunities here… It’s not about ambition.  If I didn’t think I was sincerely the best person for this job, I wouldn’t run,” Keeling said.

He said his interest in politics started at about age 16.  Two of his mentors are Texas Senator Ted Cruz and former U.S. Representative Ron Paul.  Keeling credits his former government teacher, Angelina Cavallo, for inspiring much of his political ideology.  Cavallo is aware of Keeling’s interest in joining local government.

“What better way to publicly serve than to run for office.  It’s one of those opportunities where we have a chance to give back to the community,” said Cavallo.

Keeling, a full time student at San Jac, is majoring in Environmental Science.  He is involved in several college activities including serving as president of the College Republicans, Vice President of Young Americans for Liberty, and Treasurer of the Entertainment and Multi Media Society (EMMyS) club.  He was recently appointed Precinct Chair for Precinct 420.

Keeling said campaigning efforts will begin sometime in February or March of 2014 and will range from fundraisers to block walking.

“Expect to see the flowers of political season…My family is supportive and confident that I will  either win the position or come close to it,” Keeling said.