Republican Congressional Hopefuls Draw Distinctions in El Dorado

Three Republicans hoping to be the next representative in Congress for the Fourth Congressional District met in El Dorado for the first in a series of planned debates.  Although all three seemed to agree on most issues, each candidate used the roughly 80-minute forum to present their arguments as to why they are uniquely qualified.

Beth Anne Rankin – a music teacher from Magnolia – presented herself as the popular former Republican nominee in 2010 who has built connections throughout the district. “You have a choice of two futures,” said Rankin explaining that 2012 was perhaps “the most critical election in our lifetime.”  She said that she hoped Republican voters would choose her because they know her.  She discussed her long history in the district from working to elect former Republican Jay Dickey, to working for Gov. Mike Huckabee, and being willing to take on Congressman Mike Ross in 2010.

Tom Cotton – a consultant from Dardanelle – presented himself as an Iraqi veteran who understands how to lead. He told the crowd that he knows the people of south Arkansas can succeed if given the chance. The best way to do that in his view is to work to create jobs by “getting the government off our backs and out of our pockets.”  He said that voters need to not just send Republicans to Washington but “a strong conservative leader.”  He cited his leadership as a captain in Iraq, which he said was the greatest honor of his life.

By contrast, Marcus Richmond – a retired Marine and business owner from Harvey – presented himself as an outsider who understands small business.  “We agree on a lot of things but I have the experience,” said Richmond. He said he will represent the people of the district and “not special interest groups that have funded my campaign.”  The mention was perhaps the most direct shot at his opponents, both of whom have raised over six figures while Richmond has self-financed his campaign with a personal loan of over $130,000. “We need someone who does not see this as a stepping stone to Senator or Governor.”

Republicans have at least two other debates scheduled on March 27 in Monticello and on April 21 in Hot Springs.  I am told another one is in the works for Pine Bluff.  Also running for the Republican nomination is John Cowart, who is currently serving in Afghanistan.  Two Democrats – Gene Jeffress and D.C. Morrison – have also announced.

You can watch a replay of the debate at this link, courtesy of LobbyUp, who partnered with Talk Business to live-stream the debate.