Arkansas Democrats Hold Press Conference On Litigation Filed Against Gov. Sarah Sanders Over Special Election Scandal In House District 70, Call On Republican Party To Join Lawsuit

This morning, Arkansas Democrats filed a petition for relief on behalf of the voters of House District 70 and against Gov. Sanders and Secretary of State Cole Jester. Col. Marcus Jones and Cordelia Smith-Johnson participated in a press conference on the steps of the Pulaski County Courthouse following the filing of the lawsuit.

Arkansas Democratic Party Chair Col. Marcus Jones (Ret.) said:

"You might have noticed that our Governor has been breaking the law as it relates to the Special Election Dates in House District 70. We noticed that, too. That's why today the Democratic Party of Arkansas is filing suit against the Governor and Secretary of State for denying the good people in House District 70 representation during the upcoming legislative session and a say in our state budget.

In America, historically, voters do not like taxation without representation. The idea that people who pay taxes should have a voice in how that money is being spent is as old as, well, at least as old as this country, as we all know."

State House Candidate in House District 70 and Plaintiff in the Lawsuit Cordelia Smith-Johnson said:

"I ran to be a voice for the voters in this State House District. And they need one. Because right now, voters are being denied a say in our state budget and denied representation in our State House. Hard-working taxpayers are being silenced, and that's a problem. I signed onto this lawsuit to be a part of the solution to that problem."

Col. Marcus Jones also called on the Republican Party of Arkansas to join the lawsuit:

"Refusing to fill this seat, violating state statute, and leaving Arkansans without representation, It's just plain wrong, and it's up to us to say that. This suit is how we hold the Governor and Secretary of State accountable to the 30,000 Arkansans that live in House District 70.

And because this isn't a partisan issue, I'm inviting the Republican Party of Arkansas and its Chair Joseph Wood to join us in this lawsuit. And any of the Republican candidates who intend to run in House District 70, you are welcome to join us, too. I'm calling on you to do the right thing - to advocate for all citizens in House District 70 - Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, whatever they may be. Be on the right side of history. You know how to get in touch with us."

Those interested in signing our petition to signal their support for this lawsuit, should go to: https://arkdems.us/NoTaxationWithoutRepresentation

Those interested in contributing to our legal fees can send a check to the Democratic Party of Arkansas Headquarters at 1300 W. Capitol Avenue or contribute at https://arkdems.us/FightforHD70

Cordelia Smith-Johnson is one of two Democratic candidates who have announced their intention to run for the Democratic nomination in House District 70.

A link to the video of the press conference can be found here.