Deffenbaugh, Faucher gear up for general election

story by Marla Cantrell
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Campaigning is just beginning for Crawford County assessor Dianna Faucher, who’s running as a Democrat in the District 66 State Representative race. She had no opponent in the Democratic primary, and now faces former Van Buren coach Gary Deffenbaugh in November.

So far, Faucher has raised $1,850.

It’s a far cry from the money Deffenbaugh’s accumulated. He estimates he raised $15,000 for his successful primary bid against Van Buren attorney Kevin Holmes and thinks it will take another $15,000 to secure a win in the general election.

Deffenbaugh believes the biggest concern in District 66, which includes Van Buren, Dora and Kibler, is the loss of local jobs. He wants to work with fellow lawmakers to bring the jobs back.

“There are many variables, but any opportunity to bring new industry to the River Valley and Arkansas I will support,” Deffenbaugh said. “Secondly, if there is any way I can help laid-off workers get back to their jobs, I will certainly support them.”

Faucher believes what residents want most is to have a voice in the political process.

“Constituents want to be he heard at state and national levels, that’s why they elect us,” Faucher said. “They want us to look out for their needs not our needs as politicians.”

Faucher said she would hold town meetings to keep residents informed.

If Deffenbaugh wins, it will be his first time to hold a government position. His 39-year career has been in public education and coaching. But he thinks that works to his advantage. He said he’s learned lessons in the classroom and on the playing field that will help him in Little Rock.

“I’ll be able to work on a bi-partisan basis when needed, but be able to stand my ground on my core issues,” Deffenbaugh said. “I think I have some persuasive skills when I believe strongly on an issue. I do think that God has given me some leadership ability. Lastly, I will trust God to guide me.”

Faucher couldn’t disagree more. She’s spent 25 years in the assessor’s office, and thinks that experience gives her the edge.

“I’ve been among the representatives while in session,” Faucher said. “I’ve sat in on hearings. I have been there when proposed legislation has been presented and how that particular proposal would affect others whether it is taxpayers, different offices on county level or state money. You have to ask questions, call people these laws affect and listen to those that come to you asking for your time.”

Deffenbaugh, who calls Faucher his friend, believes the battle for District 66 will be a close one. Faucher wouldn’t speculate on how close the vote will be.

“You run the best race you can and leave it to your voters,” Faucher said. “If they want you to represent them, it will happen.”