Political newcomer James Russell says he will seek Democratic nomination for Governor in 2022
by February 6, 2021 6:42 pm 6,171 views
James “Rus” Russell, a 48-year old small business owner from Little Rock, says he will seek the Democratic nomination for Arkansas Governor in 2022.
Claiming he was “frustrated by leadership” following the state’s COVID-19 response and motivated by the social justice protests of last summer, Russell said he is “determined to help.”
He and his wife run New Dawn Counseling, an outpatient mental health clinic in Little Rock. Russell said he has family roots in small town Arkansas with relatives from Lewisville and Stephens.
“I’m a registered Independent voter seeking the Democratic nomination for Governor of Arkansas,” Russell tells Talk Business & Politics.
Russell has a website outlining his positions on a variety of issues.
“I’m a progressive. I’m not afraid to say that Black Lives Matter, the LGBTQIA+ community deserve respect, and women should be paid just as much as men. I believe in personal liberty, freedom, and responsibility. I don’t think these ideals are contentious or divisive issues,” his website says.
He also outlines positions on taxes, wealth inequality, the 2nd Amendment, veterans, and the drug and opioid epidemic.
“I believe we should look for answers from within rather than without. And I know that we are better suited to do this together rather than alone. Please consider working with me to improve the lives of all Arkansans both now and for generations to come,” his website says.
Russell is a former Pre-Med/Philosophy double major at UCA with specific studies in political and legal philosophy. His website notes that he previously has worked at Arkansas Children’s and the Arkansas State Medical Board.
No other Democrats have announced for governor in 2022. Currently, announced Republican candidates for governor include Lt. Governor Tim Griffin, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge and former White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders.
Filing for office will be in March 2022 and the preferred primaries will be held in May 2022.