Tolbert: Lt. Governor Candidates Roll Out Endorsements

In the three-way Republican primary for the office of Lieutenant Governor, two candidates rolled out key endorsements this week that could be pivotal in a close election.  Congressman Tim Griffin announced a slate of 16 state senators, while State Rep. Andy Mayberry earned the approval of two conservative groups.

Griffin’s endorsements included key Republican Senate leaders including President Pro Temp Michael Lamoureux, current Majority Whip and President Pro Temp Designee Jonathan Dismang, and Majority Leader Eddie Joe Williams.

“Tim has done exceptional work on behalf of his constituents from Arkansas’ Second Congressional District—work that I know all of Arkansas would benefit from by having him as our next lieutenant governor. His plan and vision for the state of Arkansas is the right approach, and I am proud to lend my support and assistance to Tim’s campaign,” said Lamoureux.

These three there were joined by fellow Republican Senators Cecile Bledsoe (R-Rogers), Ron Caldwell (R-Wynne), Alan Clark (R-Lonsdale), John Cooper (R-Jonesboro), Jane English (R-North Little Rock), Jake Files (R-Fort Smith), Jim Hendren (R-Gravette), Bruce Holland (R-Greenwood), Missy Irvin (R-Mountain View), Bryan King (R-Green Forest), Jason Rapert (R-Conway), David Sanders (R-Little Rock) and Gary Stubblefield (R-Branch).

This makes 16 out of 22 Republican Senators.  One of the key duties of the Lieutenant Governor is to serve as the presiding officer of the Senate and in rare cases – since there are 35 senators – break a tie.

Meanwhile Mayberry received endorsements from two key Conservative groups including Conservative Arkansas and Arkansas Right to Life PAC.  Both groups specifically said the endorsements were for the primary election.

“We appreciate the values by which you live, the inspiration you provide those in your community, and the courage with which you stand up for the principles in which you believe. This endorsement also reflects our appreciation of your solid pro-life voting record as a member of the Arkansas House of Representatives and especially your willingness to lead the charge for the Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. Because of your dedication to persevere against the many obstacles to stop this legislation, this law is saving lives today in Arkansas,”  said Right to Life PAC in their letter notifying Mayberry of their endorsement.

Currently, Griffin leads the fundraising race by a hefty margin with over $309,000 raised and $265,000 cash on hand.  By contrast, Mayberry has raised over $15,000 with around $400 cash on hand.  Also in the race is State Rep. Debra Hobbs who shows that she has loaned her campaign just under $35,000 and transferred about $29,000 from her campaign for governor that she raised before switching races.  She does not show any contributions on her most recent report.