Speaker Carter says no to Governor’s race

House Speaker Davy Carter, R-Cabot, says he won’t run for Arkansas Governor in 2014, citing a return to the private sector.

“After much deliberation, I have decided against a campaign for Governor at this time. In the past weeks, I have had many calls of encouragement and offers of support from fellow Republicans, Independents and yes, even Democrats, all of which I very much appreciate. I love this state and I love public service. While I will be returning to the private sector, I will find ways to remain involved in public service in Arkansas in the years ahead,” said Carter in an emailed statement Friday morning (May 17).

Carter, a lawyer and former banker, will return to a position at Centennial Bank, a subsidiary of Conway-based Home Bancshares, where he previously worked.  In a statement from the bank, officials said Carter will serve as Executive Vice President after formerly serving as Division President for Centennial Bank in Cabot. He remains a member of the Centennial Bank Board in Cabot.

He is scheduled to talk at the central Arkansas Political Animals Club at noon after the 89th General Assembly officially declares an end to its 2013 regular session later this morning.

Carter had talked publicly about seeking the Republican nomination for Governor towards the end of the legislative session in April. Currently, former Third District Congressman Asa Hutchinson, North Little Rock’s Curtis Coleman, and Rep. Debra Hobbs (R-Rogers) have said they will vie for the post.

Democratic former Lt. Gov. Bill Halter and former Fourth District Cong. Mike Ross are competing for their party’s nomination.

Link here for more info on Carter.