Lauren Mallett-Hays to challenge Congressman Steve Womack

Lauren Mallett-Hays, a speech-language pathologist, announced Thursday (May 20) she would challenge U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers, in 2022.

Mallett-Hays, a Democrat, made the announcement through a news release and campaign video.

“I’m running for Congress because I’m tired of seeing the people who are supposed to represent us go to Washington and do nothing except fight with each other. I’m tired of watching powerful people play games and doing nothing that makes things better for the rest of us. It’s time we had a representative who puts people first,” Mallett-Hays said.

Mallett-Hays is married with three children. She works at Washington Regional Medical Center and specializes in treating patients following traumatic brain injury, stroke, neurocognitive disorders, and head and neck cancer.

On her campaign website, she outlines her priorities on healthcare, education and jobs.

“In Congress, I’ll not only be a voice for Northwest Arkansas, I’ll make sure Arkansans have a voice in Washington, because I’ll listen to you. Together we can ensure our community continues to be a place we’re proud to call home — a growing, thriving community with good schools and good jobs that keep our families close,” she said.

“In Congress, I’ll go to work every day focused on priorities that help Northwest Arkansas families, not the deal-making, back-scratching, and grandstanding that goes on in Congress now. I will always focus on getting things done to bring more jobs and opportunity to Northwest Arkansas and expand access to quality education and affordable healthcare,” she added.

Mallett-Hays, who lives in Farmington, is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas with a degree in Business Administration, and of the University of North Texas with a Masters degree.

UPDATE: A spokesman for Womack’s campaign said, “Congressman Womack is focused on fighting the socialist policies of the left which are bankrupting our nation, stifling productivity, weakening national security, and holding America back. In the last two election cycles, Third District voters have soundly rejected these big government ideas. 2022 will be no different.”