About Walter

Meet Walter Hayes

Community leader, businessman, and public servant with deep roots in Southwest Missouri.

Walter Hayes was born and raised with a deep appreciation for the values that make Southwest Missouri special — faith, family, hard work, and community. After years of building a career in business and real estate, Walter returned to Carl Junction in 1999, determined to invest in the place he calls home.

That investment took shape in public service. Walter has served as Alderman and Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Carl Junction, and as President of the Carl Junction Chamber of Commerce — roles that gave him a ground-level understanding of what it takes to keep a community growing, safe, and strong.

At the center of everything is his faith. An ordained minister, Walter leads with conviction and humility. He and Regina have raised their family here, and as proud grandparents, they think often about the kind of Southwest Missouri they want to leave behind.

More than 30 years in business and real estate development have sharpened Walter's instincts for what works. He knows how to bring people together around a common goal, make decisions with limited resources, and follow through — the kind of practical leadership Southwest Missouri deserves.

Walter Hayes at the Missouri State Capitol

A Life of Service

  1. 1999

    Returned to Carl Junction with family.

  2. 2000s

    Served as Alderman and Mayor Pro Tem, City of Carl Junction

  3. 2000s

    President, Carl Junction Chamber of Commerce

  4. Ongoing

    30+ years in business and real estate development

  5. Current

    Ordained minister and President of FTN Ministries

  6. Current

    Alderman, City of Carl Junction — Ward 2

  7. Current

    Legislative Chair, Jasper County Republican Central Committee — District 162

  8. Current

    President, Jasper County Missouri Republican Assembly (MRA)

  9. Current

    Constitution Coach, Patriot Academy

What Walter Believes

Faith & Family

Strong families are the foundation of strong communities. Walter's faith guides his decisions and his commitment to protecting Missouri families.

Fiscal Responsibility

Government should live within its means.

Community First

The best solutions come from the people closest to the problem. Walter believes in empowering local communities, not expanding state bureaucracy.

Honest Leadership

Walter believes in straight talk, keeping promises, and being accountable to the people he serves — not to special interests or party bosses.

Stay Connected

Want to stay up to date on the issues Walter is focused on? Sign up for updates and be part of the conversation.

Get Updates