U.S. REP. STEVE WOMACK image

  • STEVE WOMACK: Army vet now oversees defense spending.

Stephens Media reported yesterday that U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, a military veteran himself, was appointed to the House Appropriations subcommittee that oversees defense spending.

Advertisement

That’s a big deal on its face — particularly if you like to rub elbows with defense industry lobbyists.

But it’s a big deal in Arkansas, too. And not just because Womack is better situated now to lobby for keeping the fighter wing in place at Fort Smith.

Advertisement

Why? He’s been angling for the slot for months and had called it a “coveted” position, though a longshot for him to grab.

But now, having won a “coveted” position in the House, you can now rule out Womack as a candidate for U.S. Senate against Mark Pryor in 2014.

Advertisement

Which brings us back to the Club for Growth’s handpicked candidate, Tom Cotton. But what if Lt. Gov. Mark Darr decided to run for U.S. Senate, too? Would a Third District Republican who’s been on the ground in Arkansas for years surprise Cotton, no matter how much outside money he has, given his recent return to the state to represent a district not known for nearly the same degree of Republican enthusiasm as the Third?

Speculate at will. But, please, don’t encourage talk about Jason Rapert running for senate or lieutenant governor or anything else, except the state line.

Advertisement

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Wednesday: The Eastern Sea at Stickyz, Signs of Iris at Juanita’s Next article Maloch files bill to curb misuse of campaign money