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Special Election Set for Trusty Senate Seat; Berry Declines to Run

With GOP Sen. Sharon Trusty of Russellville having resigned due to family health issues, and Gov. Beebe setting the process in motion for a special election to fill the District 4 seat, two candidates have announced they’re in the running: former GOP Rep. Michael Lamoureux Russellville and Democratic attorney John Burnett of Atkins.

A third candidate who had earlier expressed interest in the race is former GOP Rep. Stan Berry. He sends along word today that he’s decided to stand down. His full statement is at the jump.

Berry will not seek Senate Seat

Stan Berry, a former three-term Republican state representative from Dover, has decided not to run for the open Senate District 4 position in an upcoming special election.

Berry said several supporters encouraged him to run, but he ultimately decided not to seek the position in a special election.

“From the moment it was announced this seat would become open, my phone began ringing – some very good friends and supporters encouraged me to run for this position,” Berry said. “I appreciate their encouragement, but I really think the best choice for my family is the decision not to run at this time.”

Berry will continue to serve Arkansans as a member of the Arkansas Rural Development Commission, a position that complements his experience with agriculture and rural issues.

In the Arkansas General Assembly, Berry championed several farming and agricultural issues as a member of the House Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development, protecting the rights of the rural community. He was appointed in January to the Arkansas Rural Development Commission and has been a part of awarding more than $700,000 in grants to rural communities throughout Arkansas to construct fire stations, city parks, public libraries and emergency equipment.

Having two young grandchildren also factored into his decision, he said.

“This is the best choice for my family at this time,” Berry said.

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The Arkansas Project