Health CareHealth Care ReformMedicaidMedicareObamacareUncategorized

Signing Off

update-01I can’t tell you the number of times that, over the last two and a half years, I’ve told someone, “I have the best job in the world.” And it’s true: since May of 2012, I’ve sat down at this computer every day in my pajamas and gotten paid (a little) to write about Arkansas policy and politics.
Somewhere along the way, people started to take what I was saying seriously. I did my best to give our readers an inside view of policy differences among candidates in regular and non-regular legislative elections (during which I wielded the immense power of Photoshop). I’ve been privileged to be part of an intense, statewide dialogue about the role of government in health care; as a result, we’ve seen the approval of Arkansas’s Obamacare plan drop to 13% amongst Arkansas Republicans. Heck, I even managed to spoil Christmas for a slew of liberal politicians. There’s no doubt — it’s been a great run.
But, like all good things, my time here at The Arkansas Project must come to an end. As of Monday, I will be joining the Foundation for Government Accountability in a new full-time role, working in research and communications. Change is never easy, but my family and I are excited about this new opportunity.
I’m sure there are some Arkansas politicians who will be overjoyed when they hear the news of my departure. To be honest, I can’t blame them: when I started here in 2012, I set out to hold politicians accountable, regardless of their party affiliations. I’d say I’ve been successful in that mission and (possibly) irritated a few of them along the way. But as I depart, I’d advise them not to get too excited: I plan to stay closely involved here, particularly in the battle over Medicaid expansion and, more importantly, my colleague Caleb Taylor is a dedicated, talented reporter who is well-equipped to fill my shoes. Any politician who thinks they’ve gotten a get-out-of-jail-free card as the result of this news should think again.
A few words of appreciation
There are a few people I need to thank who have made my job possible and more meaningful.
To my colleagues here at AAI who have helped with graphics, social media, and reporting — Dan, Stefani, Britney, and Caleb. All of you have been an absolute pleasure to work with and have made my job so much easier. I wish you all the best and I know you will do great things in the future.
To my friends in radio — Paul Harrell, Dave Elswick, Dale Hoffman, and David Crow — thank you all for your consistent friendship and support. I’ve turned on the radio over the past few years and heard each one of you, at some point, talking about one of my stories and praising my work here at The Arkansas Project — and of course you’ve all had me on your shows more times than I can count. I can’t tell you what that has meant to me and to the organization as a whole. You helped give me, and The Arkansas Project, a voice; for that, I will always be grateful.
And finally, last but certainly not least: to you, our loyal readers, I thank you. None of our work here would’ve been possible without your continued financial support, readership, news tips, and encouragement. I wish I could thank you all individually.
I encourage each one of you to stay informed and engaged in the fight for more liberty and less government here in Arkansas. It may not always feel like it, but we are making progress.
Sincerely,
Nic Horton

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4 thoughts on “Signing Off

  • Wonderful news! ‘Can’t think of anyone more well-suited for the job! Congratulations to one of the best Arkansas-grown journalists we’ve seen. Don’t be a stranger to Arkansas pols, your insightful perspective has kept ’em on their toes.

    Reply
  • Donnie Copeland

    Nic, I’m happy for you and your family, but saddened for Arkansas. You are by far the most talented journalist in the state and you did your job with complete integrity. I love how you held both parties accountable, we will miss you greatly.
    DCopeland

    Reply
  • Timothy Simmons

    Thank you so much Nic!!! God Bless you and your family !!!!!

    Reply

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