Searcy – On Tuesday, November 10th in front of a crowd of over 200 supporters, State Representative Jonathan Dismang officially announced his candidacy for State Senate District 29, which is being vacated by Senator John Paul Capps due to term limits.  The event was held at New Canaan Farms in Searcy, home of David and Beverly Staggs and the festivities included country music by the Jackie Stewart Band and barbeque from Road Hog of Beebe.  With a little less than a year from the 2010 elections, Dismang stated that he is “encouraged to have so many standing with him at the starting line.”
In addition to local supporters, several of Dismang’s fellow state representatives were on hand for the kick-off party.  During the program, Rep. Burris of Harrison and Rep. Terry Rice of Waldron each praised Dismang for his leadership and diligence while serving at the State Capitol.  Rep. Rice stated that “the people of District 49 have something special” and added that “Jonathan always steps up to ensure that the right things are getting done, and he does it without wavering.”
Dismang’s address was short and to the point: “Mandates are rolling in from disconnected people in Washington and our state government has to deal with those mandates on a constant basis.  This pressure from the federal level requires that people of Senate District 29 have a strong voice that is willing to defend our convictions.  I will continually work to protect the pocketbooks and principles of those that I have been allowed the honor to serve.  If you want a Senator that will work for you, watch the budget, and stand firm on principles, then I am your guy.”
While serving during the 87th General Assembly, Dismang was honored by his peers as one of the top six freshman legislators to watch and appointed as chairman of the PEER Committee of Legislative Council.  During the session, Dismang introduced nine bills.  These include a bill to exempt all active military duty pay from state income tax (HB1563), a bill that would establish tax credits for employers who provide health insurance to their employees (HB1696), and a bill that would prevent a gas company from taking property for gathering lines through the use of eminent domain (HB1178).
When asked about what issues he plans to tackle if elected senator, Dismang stated, “I will continue to develop legislation that addresses the needs of my constituents.”
Senate District 29 is comprised of southern White County, a portion of Faulkner County outside of the Vilonia area, and the Jacksonville area of Pulaski County.