Clark Hall For Congress – Update

The latest rumor floating around the capitol dome this morning is that a movement is underway to encourage Rep. Clark Hall, D-Marvell, to run for Congress in the First Congressional District against incumbent Republican Congressan Rick Crawford. 

The Democratic field has opened in the last month with former Democratic nominee Chad Causey’s announcement that he will not run in again in 2012.  In addition, Jonesboro prosecuting attorney Scott Ellington, another Democratic hopeful, has been bogged down by his high-profile involvement in the release of the West Memphis 3.

If Clark Hall’s name sounds familar, it is likely as the arcitect of the "Fayetteville Finger" map.  As chairman of the House State Agencies committee, Hall made it clear that he wanted to create a "Delta District." 

Although his map got held up in the Senate, he was able to create a First Congressional District that extends all the way down the Mississippi River border and is slightly more Democratic in its leaning.

Apparently, one of the ring leaders pushing Hall to run for Congess is Rep. Keith Ingram, D-West Memphis.  He was seen today circulating a letter of support for Hall for Congress to fellow Democratic legislators.  An interesting angle in this one is that both Ingram and Hall are rumored to be considering running in a primary against Sen. Jack Crumbly, D-Widener.

If Hall runs for Congress instead, this would open up the field for Ingram.

UPDATE – Rep. Ingram confirmed today that a letter is being sent to Hall from several Democratic legislators, including himself asking Hall to run for Congress.

"I think Rep. Hall would make a fine Congressman and I feel like he has a good opportunity to beat Congressman Crawford next fall," said Ingram.

Ingram also confirmed that he is strongly considering runing for the state senate next year against incumbant Crumbly.