Rep. Love to run for State Senate

State Rep. Fred Love, D-Little Rock, announced his candidacy Monday (June 28) for the Arkansas State Senate District 31 seat currently held by Sen. Joyce Elliott, who is term-limited.

No other candidates have announced for the seat.

Love was born and raised in Little Rock graduating from Joe T. Robinson High School and received both an undergrad and master’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

“I am running because I know there is more work for us to get done for the people of Arkansas. I am running to continue the proud legacy of Senator Joyce Elliott, who I was lucky enough to have as a teacher at Joe T. Robinson. I am running because I care deeply about this community, our children, and our future,” Love said.

Currently, Love serves on the Joint Budget Committee as well as the House Education and State Agencies committees. He previously served in leadership roles as Minority Leader for the 92nd General Assembly of the Arkansas House of Representatives, and past Chair of the Arkansas Legislative Black Caucus.

“I believe I have the experience, a proven record of taking on the tough fights and getting big things done for my constituents. I am willing to work with anyone to find solutions to our problems. I will never stop listening to the people of this district or fighting for a brighter future for all of us and that is why I am asking for your vote for State Senate.”

In the House, Love worked on health care issues. He was instrumental in getting both the Southwest Pulaski County Health unit and an Arkansas Children’s Hospital health clinic to be located in his district.

In the most recent session, Love secured major victories for clean water and Veteran Care, he said. Love sponsored Act 605 that ensures all municipal water systems will be properly maintained and funded to provide clean and safe drinking water for all Arkansas families. Act 941 provides funding for all 75 counties to receive a certified county veteran service officer, to work with veterans returning home from active duty.

“As a State Representative, we have accomplished a lot together. I would like to bring the same work ethic and collaborative effort to the State Senate. Today, I am asking for your support, so that we can continue our work to strengthen the families and communities of Senate District 31,” Love said.

Love and his wife, ShaRhonda, have two children.