by Talk Business & Politics staff (staff2@talkbusiness.net)

Former Arkansas Gov. Jim Guy Tucker died in Little Rock on Thursday (Feb. 13) at the age of 81 after battling an illness.

Tucker, a Democrat, was a former Arkansas governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, U.S. Congressman, and prosecuting attorney. He was a major player in Arkansas politics from the 1970’s through the 1990’s and was nearly elected U.S. Senator in an epic race against the late David Pryor in 1978.

Tucker served as the 43rd governor of Arkansas from 1992-1996. He was elected Lt. Governor in 1990 and elevated to governor when then-Gov. Bill Clinton was elected U.S. President. Tucker won re-election in 1994, but was snared in the Whitewater scandal and resigned from office in 1996.

Former Arkansas Gov. Jim Guy Tucker dies at 81

by Roby Brock (roby@talkbusiness.net)

by Roby Brock (roby@talkbusiness.net)

Marcus Jones, a retired Army Colonel, said Tuesday (Oct. 17) he will run as a Democrat to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. French Hill, R-Little Rock.

“French Hill isn’t a bad guy, he’s just the wrong guy,” Jones said. “Arkansas is the best state in the country. We shouldn’t be stagnating. My years of service protecting our nation compel me to run for this position, because we can do better.

“As our congressman, I will fight to ensure every hard-working Arkansan can achieve their God-given potential. Together, we will build a fair system that doesn’t knock you down every time you get a little bit ahead. We will win this race by ignoring the chaos in Washington and focusing on the issues that matter most to our families here in Central Arkansas.”

Retired Army Col. Marcus Jones to challenge U.S. Rep. French Hill