Representative Jack Ladyman, R-Jonesboro, is running for speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives.
“I have lived in Arkansas my whole life, I love the state of Arkansas,” Ladyman said in a letter to House members, dated May 9, 2023. Ladyman shared that letter Friday with Arkansas Business.
“I want to do all I can to help all Arkansans have a better quality of life,” Ladyman said.
Earlier in May, Matthew Shepherd, R-El Dorado, announced he would not seek another term leading the House. Shepherd, who served as House speaker since 2018, will step down in January 2025.
Other legislators have also thrown their hats in the ring. Arkansas House members Johnny Rye, R-Trumann, and Brian Evans, R-Cabot, have said they intend to run, according to the Arkansas Democrat Gazette.
The election for the role will be held at the end of next year’s legislative session.
“I think my background as mayor and in leadership roles for major international corporations has prepared me for the job,” Ladyman said in his letter. “I have also worked with local, state and federal governments in 41 states and six foreign countries.”
Ladyman served as mayor of Elkins in Washington County.
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