What a strange election cycle. It seems the biggest criticism of state Rep. Mark Lowery, the incumbent in the state House District 39 race in Maumelle, is that he plans to vote for his party's presidential nominee. That is, he'll vote the same way that the overwhelming majority of Arkies will vote, if the polls are even remotely on target. And he has to defend that.
Strange, strange election.
Some of us will look at his record in public office when weighing Mark Lowery's merits as a public servant. Which wouldn't be odd or special at all--in any other year.
As a member of the House's education committee, Representative Lowery--a Republican, it should be noted--has been involved in several of the high-profile changes in education over the last 2-4 years. He helped pass the legislation that allows Sherwood and Maumelle to form their own school districts, if they ever decide to do that. Freedom and local control! What a country!
If you're a home-schooled kid who still likes to play in the band at your local school, Mark Lowery would be one lawmaker to thank. He's been deeply involved in student assessment tests. And although some of us don't like the way the state keeps changing tests every year, maybe the new one will last more than a few more months and allow Arkansas to compare its scores with other states. Eventually.
Mark Lowery has supported public safety measures and has endorsements from several politicians and outfits, including Arkansas Right to Life. (You can see them all at voteonthemark.com.)
There are election seasons when it's wise to throw the bums out, all of them. Then there are times to keep experience--the good kind--in office another term. To make sure the state doesn't go backward in matters of education, public safety and other matters.
Mark Lowery deserves re-election in House District 39. Even in, and maybe especially in, this strange election year.
Editorial on 11/03/2016