DeLay delays 3rd District announcement

Gunner DeLay says he will issue a press advisory Monday (Feb. 22) about the possibility of his entry into the GOP primary race for the 3rd Congressional District.

DeLay, a Fort Smith attorney who ran for and lost GOP primary for the seat in 2001, told The City Wire on Feb. 15 that he was considering the race and may have a decision by today (Feb. 18).

“I will tell you that a press advisory will be forthcoming on Monday concerning an announcement of my plans,” DeLay noted in an e-mail response when asked about his plans to announce.

U.S. Rep. John Boozman, R-Rogers, is leaving the House seat for a U.S. Senate run against U.S. Sen. Blanche Lincoln, D-Ark. Boozman, who is in his fifth term as the 3rd District Congressman announced late into the election cycle his Senate plans, leaving a scramble by several to enter the 3rd District race.

State Sen. Denny Altes, R-Fort Smith, and Rep. Rick Green, R-Van Buren, have also expressed an interest in the 3rd District seat.

When asked if he was still considering the race, Altes said he is “still looking for a ‘burning bush.’” The burning bush refers to Altes’ previous comment that he has not been “too impressed with any of the announced candidates.”

Altes told The City Wire on Tuesday he is “encouraged by many to run.”

Rogers Mayor Steve Womack, Bernard Skoch of Elkins, former state Sen. Cecile Bledsoe of Rogers, Steve Lowry of Springdale and Boone County Judge Mike Moore have entered the race as Republicans. David Whitaker, former assistant city attorney for Fayetteville has announced as a Democrat for the 3rd District seat.

Also rumored to be considering the race are State Rep. Jonathan Barnett, R-Siloam Spring, and Benton County Judge David Bisbee.

Link here for more details on DeLay’s political history.