Alderman L.J. Bryant mulls run for Jonesboro mayor’s office

The deadline for municipal race filings is rapidly approaching and at least one other person is considering a Jonesboro mayoral run. Alderman L.J. Bryant told Talk Business & Politics he may seek the office.

Bryant spent the better part of Monday afternoon and Tuesday (Aug. 4) making phone calls to ascertain how fruitful a run might be. He said he will make a decision to run Wednesday morning.

“I’ve enjoyed having an impact from the city council … I guess what I have to ask myself is do I need to be the mayor to have the kind of impact I want to have on city government,” Bryant said.

Bryant, who has been on the council for three years, is no stranger to seeking public office. He previously ran for state land commissioner in 2010, and he narrowly lost a bid for a state representative seat in 2012. In addition to his work on the city council, Bryant co-chairs the city’s NEA Political Animals organization with Andrea Allen.

Craighead County Judge Marvin Day has withdrawn from the mayor’s race due to the potential that he might not be eligible to fill the seat. Former State Rep. Harold Copenhaver announced Monday he will seek the seat, as has businessman Thomas Elwood.

Jonesboro native Andy Shatley is the only other announced candidate for the office. On his social media accounts, he said he would seek the mayor’s office. According to his social media accounts, he is a physical therapist and a former Major League Baseball player.

Incumbent Mayor Harold Perrin will not seek a fourth term in office due to health concerns.