Ricky’s first priority, while pursuing the Libertarian party nomination and gathering signatures for ballot access in 2022, is to understand what the priorities and challenges are for Arkansans across the state. The Arkansas State Motto is “Regnat Populus.” Ricky has adopted the plain English translation as his official campaign slogan: The People Rule.
In addition to seeking the input of everyday Arkansans, Ricky has prioritized changing the narrative around politics and hopes to make state government easier to understand and participate in for everyday citizens. Ricky believes it is important for every voter to understand the responsibilities, duties, and privileges the Arkansas office of Governor actually affords, as outlined in the state’s Constitution:
“State of the State Addresses.”
The Governor is responsible for making periodic speeches to the state lawmakers concerning the condition of the state. These “State of the State Addresses” are traditionally given once a year. It is during this address that the Governor usually makes specific policy recommendations and defines next steps.
Veto Power.
The Governor has veto power over all legislative actions; however, the Governor’s veto can be overridden by a simple majority vote of both houses.
Commissions and Grants.
The Governor issues and authorizes all commissions and grants made by the state.
Commander in Chief.
The Governor is the Commander in Chief of the state’s National Guard.
Criminal Justice Reform.
The Arkansas Constitution gives the Governor significant influence over criminal justice reform within the state, specifically: “power to grant reprieves, commutations of sentence, and pardons, after conviction; and to remit fines and forfeitures, under such rules and regulations as prescribed by law.” Any time a pardon is granted, the Governor must report back to the legislature his reason for doing so. (This power does not extend to cases of treason).
Legislative Session Authorities.
The Governor has the authority to call an extraordinary session of the legislature to address specific topics outside of when our lawmakers regularly convene. In Arkansas, the legislative session is the second Monday of every other year (odd years) and lasts for 60 days.
The Governor has the authority to adjourn legislative sessions, whether regular or extraordinary when the two houses are unable to pass a resolution to adjourn.
Responsible for Filling Vacancies.
The Governor is responsible for filling vacancies specifically in the offices of Treasurer of State, Secretary of State, Auditor of State, Attorney General, and any other office that becomes vacant which doesn’t have a predefined legal course for filling said vacancy.
