Boozman considering U.S. Senate race

U.S. Rep. John Boozman, R-Rogers, is considering entering the already crowded Republican field seeking the chance to challenge U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln, D-Ark. in the November general election.

Boozman has represented Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District — which includes the Fort Smith area — for the past 10 years.

Roby Brock, a content partner with The City Wire, was one of the first Arkansas media outlets to release information on Boozman’s interest.

Sara Lasure, spokeswoman for Boozman, told The City Wire early Friday that Boozman is indeed reconsidering his political options.

“He does believe our country is at a crossroads and he is analyzing where he could best serve the people of Arkansas,” Lasure said.

Boozman’s entry into the field could dramatically alter the dynamics of the Senate race.  He has been elected to his congressional office five times by solid majorities, noted the post by Brock. Further, Brock said Boozman’s identification would be a strong asset in the third district, where as much as 50% of the statewide Republican primary vote exists.

Boozman’s entry may also convince several other GOP candidates to withdraw from the race, deferring to his seniority, name recognition, and party loyalty. His entry in the race could also open the floodgates for a field of candidates to replace him.

A Boozman move would also cause a potential scramble of candidates to switch races or enter the race for the 3rd District seat. Bernard Skotch, a Republican, is the only candidate to announce for the 3rd District seat other than Boozman.

(Stay tuned to The City Wire for updates to this story.)