Arkansas governor formally launches bid for re-election

LITTLE ROCK—Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced Tuesday he's running for re-election, as the Republican vowed to expand on tax cuts he's championed since taking office and on efforts to create more jobs in the state.

Hutchinson, who was first elected in 2014, had been widely expected to seek re-election and had already been raising money for next year's campaign. Hutchinson last month reported having nearly $700,000 cash on hand for his re-election bid.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed serving as governor and there's a lot of unfinished work out there," Hutchinson told The Associated Press. "My passion and vision for Arkansas has not subsided in any way, and I want to be able to continue to serve this state."

Hutchinson ran three years ago primarily on a plan to cut income taxes across the board, and lawmakers have approved $150 million in reductions he's advocated. Hutchinson stopped short of specifying how much of a tax cut he'll push for if re-elected, noting that a legislative task force will begin meeting soon to look at tax cut recommendations.

Read more: http://www.texarkanagazette.com/news/arkansas/story/2017/may/17/arkansas-governor-formally-launches-bid-re-election/674333/