Auditor of State Andrea Lea to seek re-election in 2018

Auditor of State Andrea Lea said she plans to seek re-election in 2018. She was elected to her first term in 2014 and can only serve two terms in the statewide constitutional office.

Lea said she hoped to build on the successes and reforms she’s brought to the office if elected to a second term.

“I’m excited and hopeful to continue serving the people of Arkansas,” said Lea. “Implementing conservative reforms and reducing government spending is not just a talking point. I have put the idea in practice and Arkansans are receiving a better bang for their buck because of it. I’m proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish and look forward to finding more efficiencies while also providing superior service to Arkansans.”

Lea pointed to the following accomplishments as Auditor of State:

• Returning $35,316,296 to Arkansans via the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt.
• In 2016, 5,000 more Arkansans claimed assets than in any administration before, while spending a fraction of the cost of advertising.
• Left an average of 8 full-time positions unfilled, approximately a 28% reduction in staff, saving $578,238 annually.
• Returned $33,638,851 to the General Revenue Fund.

Lea, a former GOP State Representative from Russellville, is the first Republican to serve as State Auditor. She also previously served on the Pope County Quorum Court and Russellville City Council.

Last year, the Center for Digital Government awarded Lea’s office a prestigious Digital Government Achievement Award for the office’s use of technology to increase Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt claims by 354%.

Lea and her husband Phillip have three grown children and three grandchildren.