Yesterday we were told one or two people who are losing their jobs because of employer vaccine mandates are seriously considering seeking new well-paid jobs as state legislators. They are considering running against state legislators who they see as supporting vaccine mandates by not doing anything to stop them.
One would have been a surprise but potentially two?
There has not been such a hot button issue in Arkansas politics since 1980 when Frank White defeated sitting Governor Bill Clinton. This issue of vaccine mandates looms large for the Republican primary regardless of whether either of the two individuals run. The primary will be held early next year.
We have some advice to share. They may not like what we are about to say but they need to be aware and make informed decisions.
FIRST, it is not over. Several bills have been filed on the subject and their legislators still might be swayed to help. Alienating your legislator in the middle of a debate does not help.
SECOND, anger or frustration over one issue can be the spark that causes a person to run for office but being a one issue candidate does not work well. Learn the issues facing Arkansas and be aware of a potential opponent’s voting record and statements.
THIRD, make a reasoned decision. Being a candidate is a huge effort requiring time and money. To get out an effective message requires campaign funds and this is where you will be at a disadvantage. Big money does not always win but it is a hurdle.
The powerful corporations who think workers are expendable if they don’t get vaccinated are the same corporations who will be funding campaigns through contributions to political action committees and donations from executives and owners. In addition, their lobbyists have a long record of organizing campaign fundraising events for candidates favored by the corporations.
FOURTH, if you are certain you will run, we have advice that applies to just this election cycle. Senate and Representative districts are being redrawn and the work is expected to be completed in mid-November. Do not announce your intentions until after the new districts are set. Governor Asa Hutchinson will be the deciding vote on the new boundaries. The first client on his law firm’s list is Walmart, which is one of the big corporations imposing the vaccine mandates. If you announce your candidacy before the boundaries are set you may find your house being gerrymandered into a different district.
We would not discourage any conservative from running for office. Just be informed and make sure you are committed to the task.
