Several top-ticket candidates will get to voice their plans for job creation, health care and other political topics at an east Arkansas conference beginning today.
Both major-party gubernatorial candidates, Democrat Mike Ross and Republican Asa Hutchinson, will kick off keynote speeches at the Delta Grassroots Caucus in Helena-West Helena.
After remarks from the two former congressmen, guests can see 1st District congressional candidates Republican Rick Crawford, of Jonesboro, and Democratic challenger Jackie McPherson.
Both Arkansas U.S. senators, Democrat Mark Pryor and Republican John Boozman, will also be speaking. Rep. Tom Cotton, who is campaigning against Pryor, isn't attending.
Beyond Arkansas leaders, a pair of Mississippi candidates, Republican U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran and former U.S. Rep. Travis Childers, a Democrat, will also speak.
The head of the Arkansas Hospital Association, Bo Ryall, and former U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater are also speakers.
The two-day event starts today, but the keynote speakers will appear beginning at 11 a.m. Friday.
The event is being held at the Beth El Heritage Hall.
Additional information about registration fees and the agenda is available at www.mdgc.us/articles/2014/10/28/speaking_times_for_candidates_directions/
Metro on 10/30/2014