Notes from the Campaign Trail: Tucker outraises Hill in 3Q, but incumbent keeps cash advantage

Federal Election Commission (FEC) quarterly reports were due on Oct. 15 for the third quarter and, according to the filings, Democrat Clarke Tucker outraised his Republican opponent, incumbent Rep. French Hill by about $100,000.

Tucker raised $694,238 in the third quarter compared to Hill’s $595,368 haul. During the quarter, Tucker spent $851,185 to Hill’s $761,357. At the end of the quarter, Hill had $1.46 million cash on hand compared to Tucker’s $230,484.

Through the larger lens of the campaign cycle, Hill has raised $2.55 million in total compared to Tucker’s $1.7 million. Hill has spent $1.8 million for the cycle, while Tucker has spent $1.44 million as of Sept. 30, 2018.

John Grove, Hill’s campaign manager said, “Congressman Hill is thankful for the strong support across all seven counties. Arkansans have recognized what is at risk this election and are ready to reject the Democrats’ plans for higher taxes, bigger government, and a weaker economy. While Congressman Hill has worn tire tread traveling the district, in a stark contrast, his opponent flew to D.C. in the final days of the fundraising quarter to get the support he could not find in Arkansas.”

“We are proud of the people-powered campaign that has garnered so much support and momentum this year. While we are encouraged by the money we’ve raised, we know this campaign is about so much more than numbers — Arkansans have watched Congressman Hill put special interests and party politics ahead of our well-being for too long, and we are ready for a change,” said Graham Senor, Tucker’s campaign spokesman. “People recognize Clarke is someone who will put people first and work to protect our health care, improve our kids’ education, and defend our seniors’ hard-earned Medicare and Social Security. That’s why our momentum only continues to build just three weeks out from Election Day.”

SUPREME COURT RACE RATCHETS UP
The runoff for the Arkansas Supreme Court seat between Justice Courtney Goodson and challenger David Sterling has seen activity in recent days.

Goodson has a new TV spot that highlights her 18-year old daughter and the lessons she’s imparted to her. “Always let faith be your guide and never back down from a bully,” says Goodson in partial response to the dark money ads and mailers that have criticized her.

Sterling has been working the Republican county committee and dinner circuit a lot this election year. He makes no bones about his conservative bona fides. This week, yard signs emerged that read: “David Sterling, Supreme Court – Conservative Who Stands With Trump.” The signs are paid for by the “Republican State Leadership Committee’s Judicial Fairness Initiative.”

TIME FOR THE TV HOMESTRETCH
With about three weeks to go, we’re seeing new TV spots for some of the down ballot races in Arkansas. Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin and Attorney General Leslie Rutledge, both Republicans, are up on air with TV spots.

Griffin, who faces Democrat Anthony Bland, touts shrinking government to make Arkansas more competitive with surrounding states. Rutledge, who is being challenged by Democrat Mike Lee, touts her defense of “families, faith and freedom.” Also, Clarke Tucker has a new TV ad highlighting a Hill voter who learned she has cancer and is now voting for Tucker. You can watch some of the ads below.

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Editor’s note: ‘Notes from the Campaign Trail’ is a compilation of various political insider tidbits. It is sponsored by Campbell Ward Consulting|Communications.