Secretary of State John Thurston to run for State Treasurer
by August 9, 2023 11:38 am 887 views
Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston announced Wednesday (Aug. 9) he plans to seek election to the office of Arkansas State Treasurer.
The death of Treasurer Mark Lowery led Gov. Sarah Sanders to appoint Larry Walther to the post in the interim until the 2024 election cycle can choose a new treasurer to complete the term of office. Thurston is serving his second term as Secretary of State and has served two terms as Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands.
“Our state was dealt a loss with the unexpected passing of State Treasurer Mark Lowery. We continue to mourn his loss along with his family, friends, and staff,” said Thurston. “With Governor Sanders’ appointment of Larry Walther to fill the seat until the 2024 election, I am announcing my candidacy for the office of Arkansas Treasurer of State.”
“It has been my honor to represent and serve the citizens of Arkansas as Secretary of State since 2019 and as Commissioner of State Lands for the eight years preceding. It is my intent to continue to serve the people of Arkansas with the same trust and integrity that they have come to know and expect from my administration,” he added.
No other candidates have declared for the office of Treasurer.
“I am confident that with my experience and dedication to the people of Arkansas, I can continue to serve our state well in the role of State Treasurer,” said Thurston. “As State Treasurer, I will continue to stand by my commitment to outstanding customer service, serving as a good steward of taxpayer’s funds, advancing the technological resources available to businesses, and streamlining our online systems that serve Arkansans, state agencies, and other stakeholders. I am humbled by the support I’ve received serving the people of Arkansas as Secretary of State and look forward to continuing my service as Arkansas State Treasurer.”
If elected, Thurston would be in the middle of a four-year term as Secretary of State and would have to vacate the office. Gov. Sarah Sanders would then appoint a replacement for the remainder of his term until the 2026 regular election cycle.