The Truth In Arkansas Politics

PRESS RELEASE
NOVEMBER 2, 2005

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

JONESBORO, AR – The Arkansas Times reported on Wednesday that Jason Willett, Chairman of the Democratic Party of Arkansas, is mulling a run for State Representative in District 75.

Billie Sue Hoggard (R) announced her bid as a candidate for the same seat on September 17, 2005. Ms. Hoggard responded Wednesday evening, stating, “If chairman Willett wishes to enter the race, I welcome the competition, although I am quite confident that the majority of the voters in District 75 will place their confidence in me.”

Hoggard, who ran for the same seat in 2004, was narrowly defeated by Jonesboro attorney Dustin McDaniel (D) by only a 6 point margin. McDaniel is abandoning the seat after only one term to pursue a bid for Arkansas Attorney General. Hoggard’s campaign is confident that every vote missed last time will be turned out for Hoggard in 2006.

Willett, recently embattled by many from his own party, has served as Chairman of the Democratic Party of Arkansas for only 9 months.

Hoggard has a long list of accomplishments and strong record in education and politics. A nationally board certified teacher who serves as a mentor to other teachers in her district, Hoggard believes that the Arkansas legislature should focus on providing all Arkansas children with an equitable education. Hoggard stated, “Having served as a classroom teacher for 28 years, I know what reform is necessary to put Arkansas’ education system on the right track. In the 86th General Assembly I will tackle such important issues as both wasteful and inadequate spending throughout our state’s education system.” Hoggard previously served as Justice of the Peace on the Craighead County Quorum Court and currently serves as a member of the Arkansas Educational Television Network Board of Commissioners.

Hoggard’s campaign also indicated that while her platform consists primarily of education issues, she is deeply committed to matters concerning small businesses, economic development and prescription drugs. If elected, Hoggard promises to deliver results for the parents, small business owners, taxpayers and senior citizens of Jonesboro.