VOTE 2024 | Arkansas House of Representatives, District 88

1. Arkansas’s economic situation still ranks poorly amongst its peers. How would you help bolster the economy if elected?

Robert Bradford: Tax Incentives for businesses to raise minimum wages. Lower the income tax some more.

Dolly Henley: As a Republican candidate with deep understanding of rural Arkansas, I believe in fostering economic growth through conservative principles-reducing burdensome regulations, promoting small business development, and attracting investment to our state through incentives that encourage job creation and innovation.

Arnetta Bradford: I believe we need to make sure our taxes should match or be better than surrounding states to help attract employers to the state. Additionally, we need to invest in the infrastructure required to get several potential job sites “move in ready” to help make sure companies have space to grow and add to their workforce. That means ensuring good roads, water/sewer, internet and ability to attach to electricity.

2. Do you support voucher programs and school choice? Why or why not?

A. Bradford: I support Arkansas LEARNS. I believe that parents know what is best for their children and should have the right to ensure their educational needs are being met.

Henley: Yes, I support voucher programs and school choice because they empower parents to make the best educational decisions for their children. By giving families options beyond their assigned district, we can ensure that every child has access to a quality education regardless of their zip code.

R. Bradford: Simple, a lot of schools are closed that could be reopened to help travel time as well as the need for gasoline would be less. There needs to be a very excellent reason why a child leaves their own school district

3. If the federal government were to issue an edict requiring the state to comply, do you feel the state is required to comply with that order?

R. Bradford: If it defies Arkansas state laws, I would support Governor Sanders to take it to the Federal Courts.

Henley: While I believe in upholding states’ rights, it’s essential to weigh federal mandates against the best interests of Arkansans. If an edict from the federal government aligns with our state’s values and priorities, compliance may be appropriate. However, if it infringes on our constitutional rights or imposes undue burdens, we must explore avenues to protect our sovereignty.

A. Bradford: If the federal government attempts to mandate states into submission, I believe it is the state’s responsibility to push back. States are the last line of defense against an infringing federal government, and we should do everything in our power to ensure they don’t mandate us to do things Arkansans don’t want.

4. What is the biggest issue facing Arkansas today?

Henley: The biggest issue facing Arkansas today is revitalizing our rural communities and addressing the unique challenges they face, including access to healthcare, infrastructure development, and economic opportunity. As a candidate deeply rooted in rural value, I am committed to championing policies that uplift and empower all Arkansans.

A. Bradford: One of the biggest issues is that we have strayed so far away from our Christian Values trying to separate Church and State. It has taken its toll on Education, Economic Growth, Support for our Elderly and our Veterans by making it solely about politics. I sincerely feel that if we get back to our Christian Values it will help us to have a better sense of the actual needs of the people in our State.

R. Bradford: Education, wages, taxes, health care as well as mental health issues.

5. Do you feel the current political climate adequately represents rural Arkansans?

A. Bradford: I don’t think any part of Arkansas likes what we are seeing at the national level. Constant bickering and blaming each other with no real solutions being offered from either side. It’s time to stop that and get the focus back on what’s important: Our State and the need of the people in it.

R. Bradford: I am a Conservative Republican. However, my two opponents are Democrats running as Republicans. Personally, I feel that the state among parties is divided on many issues. We need more bipartisan agreement among the party lines.

Henley: No, I do not believe the current political climate adequately represents rural Arkansans. Rural communities often feel overlooked or marginalized by policymakers in urban centers. As a candidate, I am dedicated to amplifying the voices of rural Arkansans ensuring that their concerns are heard and their interests are prioritized in the decision-making process.