Treasurer

Three candidates compete in special treasurer election

KUAR | By Josie Lenora

In November, Arkansans will have the opportunity to choose between three candidates for state treasurer.

The treasurer's office describes itself as being the “state's banker.” Similar to how most of us have bank accounts, government agencies across Arkansas have accounts with the treasurer's office. The office manages the deposits, withdrawals and money distributions.

They pride themselves on trying to “maximize returns” by collecting interest. The treasurer's office boasts that they manage about $9 billion dollars.

The last person elected to the post was former state Rep. Mark Lowery, but Lowery died in July of last year at age 66. He had been suffering from health problems before his death including two strokes the same year he died. He announced his retirement the day before his death.

Three candidates compete in special treasurer election

Democrat John Pagan (Left), Republican Secretary of State John Thurston (Middle), Libertarian Michael Pakko (Right).

Gov. Sanders names DFA Secretary Larry Walther as Treasurer

by Roby Brock (roby@talkbusiness.net)

Gov. Sarah Sanders on Thursday (Aug. 3) appointed Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) Secretary Larry Walther to fill out the term of the late Treasurer of State Mark Lowery.

Lowery died of complications from a stroke in July.

Walther has served as DFA secretary since former Gov. Asa Hutchinson appointed him in 2015. He also served as former Gov. Mike Huckabee’s director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.

Walther began his career as an engineer at SBC Communications, rising to the role of vice president of corporate services and also serving as chairman of SBC’s Foundation. SBC is now AT&T.

https://talkbusiness.net/2023/08/gov-sanders-names-dfa-secretary-larry-walther-as-treasurer/