Rep. Warwick Sabin exploring run for Little Rock mayor
The election isn’t until November 2018, but the capital city is likely to see a competitive race for its next mayor.
State Rep. Warwick Sabin, D-Little Rock, says he’s exploring a challenge to incumbent Mayor Mark Stodola, who is expected to run for re-election but has yet to formally declare.
“For too long, Little Rock has been standing still. It’s time for new ideas and new energy,” Sabin said in a press release. “I’m exploring a run for Mayor because Little Rock has the potential to be a more vibrant and dynamic city. With new ideas, we can make Little Rock a hub of economic activity, make our schools great and keep our city safe, so people want to raise their families here.”
Sabin mentioned his interest in running for the post in a 2015 article in Talk Business & Politics.
As a state legislator, Sabin has represented parts of midtown, downtown and southwest Little Rock. He cited his bipartisan legislative efforts on ethics laws, clean energy, and economic development as experience for the job.
Sabin serves as the Senior Director, U.S. Programs at Winrock International, where he studies and implements programs aimed at helping rural America. He has also worked for the Clinton Foundation, the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub, the Arkansas Times, the Oxford American, and as press secretary for former U.S. Rep. Marion Berry during his professional tenure.
He and his wife, Jessica, live in Stift Station. Jessica DeLoach Sabin is a Talk Business & Politics contributor.
On Sunday, Sabin planned a listening tour around the city that included stops at Bernice Garden Farmers Market, Delicious Temptations, and Hindman Park. He also released an introductory video, which can be viewed below.