Pritchard Makes Issue of Union Donation to Woods

Sen. Bill Pritchard (R-Elkins) took a break from criticizing his opponent Rep. Jon Woods (R-Springdale) from being a good time party rock-n-roller  to instead trying to tie him to President Obama.

Here’s the connection – if you can follow it – from the Pritchard for State Senate press release…

Republican State Senator Bill Pritchard criticized his opponent, Rep. Jon Woods, for accepting $1,000 from one of the largest labor unions in the United States, the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) union. AFSCME is a proud backer of Democrats across America and recently endorsed Barack Obama for President.

…

“It is very disturbing that a group that has endorsed Barack Obama, his signature piece of legislation – Obamacare, and plans to spend $100 million on behalf of Democrats in this election cycle has contributed to my opponent,” stated Pritchard.  “I’ve been a proud supporter of tort reform, and I have worked tirelessly to enhance Arkansas’ workers compensation laws.”

You got that: Woods takes money from the AFSCME, which makes him the same as President Obama.  I blame the rock-n-roll. Video proof.

“Bill Pritchard’s latest attack is just another sign that he’s becoming increasingly desperate as the election slips away from him,” responded Woods. “As voters learn more about Bill Pritchard’s support of $559 million in higher taxes–including higher personal income taxes, higher corporate income taxes, and a tripling of the business franchise tax–they are increasingly turned off by the prospects of his re-election.”

“It’s safe to say that my opponent and I have different definitions of what pro-jobs and pro-business mean. The small business owners I talk to say that one of their biggest challenges is an ever increasing tax burden–a burden that Bill Pritchard helped build during his time in office,” said Woods.

Still Pritchard is correct that unions tend to back Democrats, but it is not unheard of to give money to Republicans in Arkansas.  For example, they have given to Sen. Michael Lamoureux (R-Russellville) who could be the next Republican Senate Pro Temp if the Republicans take the majority in this years election.