Folks, meeting and talking to supporters on the campaign trail continues to be a highlight for me. And writing to you through emails like this one is another powerful way to connect with supporters while I’m on the road. Last week I put a call out for readers like you to share any questions you have for me, and I’m excited to share answers to some of the questions that you submitted. Let’s get right into it:

From Liz: “What is the most impactful book that you’ve read in the last year, and why?”

I’ve read several impactful books this past year, so it’s hard to narrow it down. High Conflict, by Amanda Ripley, provides a great framing of how some people (politicians) not only feed off conflict but some are also creators of it (conflict entrepreneurs) and it’s all for their own selfish gain. Malcolm Gladwell’s David and Goliath was an insightful look at the centuries old story of seemingly impossible odds. I am re-reading Agenda for Reform by Cathy Kunzinger Urwin, which is the story of Governor Winthrop Rockefeller’s push to address many long standing challenges plaguing the most vulnerable in Arkansas. I’m also listening to Beasts of Prey by Arkansas native Auyana Gray (watch out for this phenomenal author!)

From Bart: “If you were the governor with a billion plus dollar surplus, how would you choose to deploy that money to make Arkansans’ lives better? Contrast your priorities in spending public money versus the Republican priorities.”

My opponent seems singularly committed to eliminating the income tax, which is 55% of the state’s revenue. To which I ask — what essential services will she cut as Kansas had to do (education, police, mental health, farm supports, fire) or what taxes will she increase as Texas and Florida have done (property, sales, etc.)

We can certainly begin with modest tax cuts that benefit the greatest number of Arkansans. I’m committed to spreading PB&J across the entire state — Preschool, Broadband, and Jobs. So, I would expand access to affordable, high quality preschools, finish the work on high-speed internet for all homes, and bring real economic development in areas of the state that have been ignored. As governor, if we had a billion plus dollar surplus, I would not hesitate to increase teacher pay, put a fund aside to support farmers in times of drought and bad weather conditions, develop an agriculture technology accelerator (similar to our very successful financial technology accelerator), and I would give local regions the opportunity make local decisions regarding some of those funds. For additional information on how a Jones administration would allocate those resources, please visit our website and visit the Promises page.

From Danielle: “I’m concerned about climate change and the billions of dollars we spent on climate disasters. I wondered if you would lead Arkansas to a net-zero emissions future as soon as possible. This would accelerate job growth in clean energy and climate innovation, positioning Arkansas as a leader in a clean economy.”

As a scientist and someone with a deep love for sustainability and for maintaining our amazing Natural State, I am committed to helping Arkansas accelerate growth in energy and environmental innovations. We are well poised to be leaders in this space and as governor, I’d see it through. 

From Derrel: “Do you have any ideas on how to increase affordable housing in the North East portion of the state and Delta. There is a distinct shortage of housing available.” 

Housing availability is an ever growing challenge throughout Arkansas. It’s a challenge that’s only exacerbated by the quality of our housing stock. As governor, I’d work with local municipalities and regions to implement context appropriate housing — from tiny homes to 3D printed homes to mixed use developments. 

From Jacquelyn: “As a Navy mom I worry about my son daily. But, what can we do as Arkansans to help our military vets and stop them from being homeless. How would you install programs to help our vets.” 

As the husband of a combat veteran (my wife served in Afghanistan), I am committed to our veterans. We currently have over 200,000 veterans in Arkansas and yet the Veterans Administration is only funding at a level that can adequately support less than half (roughly 90,000). I’d start by fully funding the Arkansas Department of Veterans Administration and by opening the door for innovative partnerships that get our veterans off the streets and into homes and jobs. 

From Karen: “Will there be a debate among the candidates running for Governor?”

Debates are the perfect venue for candidates to share and discuss their ideas and outline how they would lead our State. I can’t imagine a world where a candidate, for the highest office in our state, would refuse to debate their opponents. And yet, we are now faced with that possibility with my opponent. There will certainly be a debate. The question remains as to whether or not Sarah Huckabee Sanders will show up for that debate. I’m committed to being ready.

I know Arkansans are tired of feeling unheard. So I’m focused on talking directly to folks like you in all ways possible, because we shape policies and make decisions with our communities in mind. Your input and feedback is important, and with you on this team, we’ll gain all the insight we need to win. If you have more questions to ask, please submit them here — and we’ll be sure to continue to answer as much as we can. [[link removed]]

Thanks for being a part of this team,

Chris Jones

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