Another Democrat has officially entered the race for governor of Arkansas.
Chris Jones, a seventh-generation Arkansan who previously served as executive director of the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub, announced his bid for the 2022 election Tuesday. Speaking in his hometown of Pine Bluff, Jones said his experience in that job exposed him to many of the challenges facing Arkansans.
“I met good people who felt left behind, forgotten and unheard. It’s heartbreaking to know we have underpaid workers, Arkansans without healthcare, children going hungry, senior citizens worried about the cost of prescription drugs, and truck drivers worried about driving over fractured bridges,” Jones said.
A trained nuclear engineer and political newcomer, Jones stressed the importance of organizing and fundraising. He also cited the need for increased government investment in public works projects.
“I’m in this race to rebuild our infrastructure, to invest in healthcare, education and jobs; to extend access to rural broadband, to give Arkansans the tools we need to successfully compete," Jones said. "All we’re asking for is a fair chance.”
Jones enters a crowded Democratic primary contest, facing three other opponents. Anthony Bland, James “Rus” Russell and Supha Xayprasith-Mays are also running in the Democratic primary for governor. Former White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Attorney General Leslie Rutledge have announced their candidacies as Republicans.
Despite that, Jones urged voters to ignore potential attacks from political rivals.
“Other candidates might try to divide us during this election. I’m asking you to ignore the noise,” Jones said. “I’m here to bring Arkansans together with a campaign that’s honest about our worst, as we fight to bring out our best.”
Jones’ brother, Leon Jones Jr., is currently running for Attorney General as a Republican. Arkansas’ gubernatorial election is set for November 2022.
