LITTLE ROCK - Arkansas Democratic Party Chair Grant Tennille released the following statement on Sen. Fred Love’s announcement that he is seeking the Democratic Gubernatorial nomination.

“Gov. Sanders’ record of failure is motivating folks from all across Arkansas to seek public office. Her voucher scam has defunded our public schools, the Franklin County prison fiasco has turned her own voters against her, and her out-of-control spending is ultimately going to cause a tax increase for all of us.
Sen. Love is the first to announce that he is seeking the Democratic nomination for Governor here in the Natural State. We’re anticipating a crowded primary, and we’re wishing all of the candidates the best on the trail.”

Arkansas Democratic Party Chair Grant Tennille

The Democratic Party of Arkansas Rules prohibit officers, counties, auxiliaries, and staff from officially endorsing in a Democratic primary. Excerpts of these rules are included below: 

The State Committee, its Auxiliaries or any County Committee and its Auxiliaries shall not endorse the candidacy of any person seeking the nomination of the Party in a race where more than one candidate has announced in a primary election. As an individual, State, Auxiliary or County officers may support the candidacy of a person seeking the nomination of the Party in a primary election; however, a State or County officer shall not use his or her office to support the candidacy of any person seeking the nomination of the Party in a primary election.

Section 9.11. Committee and Officer Endorsement Prohibited. 

It is essential that all Arkansas Democrats have faith in the loyalty and integrity of their paid staff. Accordingly, the staff of the Democratic Party of Arkansas is expressly prohibited from working on behalf of any candidate seeking election for a party office or for public office in a Democratic Party primary in Arkansas. 

Section 9.12. Prohibition of Party Staff Working on Behalf of Candidates for Public Office.