Dana Deree announces bid for Washington County Judge

Dana Deree, a former combat veteran, diplomat and businessman, announced Monday (March 31) that he is seeking the Democratic nomination for Washington County Judge, the chief executive of the third-most populous county in Arkansas.

Republican Patrick Deakins is the Washington County Judge.

Deree, 55, served in combat in the Gulf War with the Marine Corps. He is a former Navy Reserve officer and a retired senior-level diplomat with the U.S. Department of State. In 2021, he launched Arkansas Global Connect, a Fayetteville-based company that sources labor for businesses nationwide.

Touting his stewardship of multi-million dollar programs, working with hundreds of employees, and his background in the military, law enforcement, and crisis management, the Fayetteville resident said he will bring more transparency to the office.

“Since I started exploring the race for County Judge, I have been encouraged by hundreds of Independents, Republicans, and Democrats, who are eager for a new kind of politics – a leader who brings people together with transparency as we navigate the challenges and opportunities faced in Washington County. I am ready to put a lifetime of executive experience to work to address the serious issues facing our community. In contrast to the incumbent, I will do so by working with neighbors and stakeholders from all backgrounds and perspectives,” said Deree.

Deree’s campaign announced it has accumulated more than $90,000 since January from more than 400 donors.

Deree and his wife, Stephanie, a licensed clinical social worker, have three sons, one of whom attends the University of Arkansas and one who is a senior at Fayetteville High School.

He holds undergraduate and master’s degrees from Harding University, and was formerly a high school social science teacher and local chapter president of the Arkansas Education Association. He is a deacon at Robinson Avenue Church of Christ in Springdale.

“This race is critical for the future of our county,” Deree said. “Not only because Washington County is experiencing such rapid growth and challenges with our infrastructure, cost of housing, and county services, but because the incumbent has created a climate of discord and waste.”