In a move to shake up Arkansas politics, Chase McDowell has announced his candidacy to unseat U.S. Congressman French Hill in the 2026 Republican primary. In an interview with Conduit News, McDowell shared his vision, background, and motivations for entering the race, emphasizing his commitment to addressing Arkansas’s economic and social challenges.
Key Topics
- Background and Motivation ([00:01:10:21 – 00:04:09:00]): From a small Arkansas town, McDowell’s experience in small business and politics drives his campaign. He’s frustrated with Arkansas’s 44th ranking in education, high unemployment, and $37 trillion national debt.
- Economic Development ([00:06:23:23 – 00:10:11:22]): Plans to leverage Arkansas’s lithium and steel resources for battery manufacturing, boosting local jobs without new taxes, aiming to raise median income to the national average ($74,000).
- Opposition to Crypto Focus ([00:07:53:17 – 00:08:31:05]): Criticizes Hill’s push for a cashless society, arguing it harms small businesses and community banks.
- High Filing Fees ([00:15:22:23 – 00:17:22:16]): Calls Arkansas’s $30,000 GOP filing fees an “incumbent protection plan,” deterring challengers.
- Fiscal Responsibility ([00:34:22:08 – 00:38:40:07]): Pledges not to raise the debt ceiling, criticizing frivolous spending and unchecked budgets.
- Legislative Priorities ([00:41:21:20 – 00:44:09:08]): Proposes eliminating Pharmacy Benefit Managers to lower healthcare costs and improving veterans’ mental health support to address homelessness.
- Grassroots Campaign ([00:44:41:11 – 00:45:14:18]): Funded by over 50,300 small donors, McDowell emphasizes a people-driven campaign.
McDowell’s campaign website, www.McDowellForArkansas.com, provides more details
