Rep. Rice receives legislative endorsements in Senate bid

Rep. Terry Rice, R-Waldron, picked up several endorsements from his fellow legislators this week in his race to unseat District 9 Sen. Bruce Holland, R-Greenwood, who is seeking a third term in the Arkansas Senate.

Of the five endorsements, three come from Crawford County legislators.

Rep. Gary Deffenbaugh, R-Van Buren, said he was proud to call Rice a friend who understands the area's values.

"I’ve had the honor and privilege to work with Representative Terry Rice in the legislature for the last four years.  I know him to be a man of utmost character.  He understands Western Arkansas values and will always do what is right no matter the consequences.  I’m proud to call him my friend. I hope you will join me in supporting him in the Republican Primary on May 20th. ”

Rep. Charlene Fite, R-Figure Five, said that Rice's "word is his bond, and he will always fight for our conservative, Western Arkansas Values.” Rep. Charlotte Vining Douglas, R-Alma, said his "leadership and conservative conviction" was needed in the state senate.

"I know Terry to be principled and reasoned in his approach to serving his district.  Western Arkansas would be well served with Terry Rice in the Arkansas Senate."

Sen. Bryan King, R-Green Forest, and Sen. Gary Stubblefield, R-Branch, also endorsed Rice's run.

District 9 includes parts of Crawford, Franklin, Scott and Sebastian Counties. Statewide Republican and Democratic primaries will be held May 20.