Asa Hutchinson in Almanac of American Politics

On Civil Rights: Forced moderate version of business "religious freedom" bill

Hutchinson had to grapple with a religious freedom measure that blew up shortly after a similar bill in Indiana through fire for potentially enabling businesses to refuse to serve gays and lesbians. As in Indiana, disapproval from the business community was critical in forestalling the measure; in Arkansas the key opposition came from Wal-Mart, and Hutchinson's son Seth attracted notice for signing a petition urging the governor to cast a veto. Hutchinson rejected the first version he received from lawmakers, ordering up changes to the most controversial provisions. The legislature complied, and Hutchinson signed the revised measure. Source: Almanac of American Politics on 2022 Arkansas Governor race Oct 5, 2015

On Principles & Values: Parents operated a Christian radio station and school

Asa Hutchinson grew up on a farm with his brother Tim who later became a senator. Their parents also operated a Christian radio station in school. After graduating from Bob Jones University, Asa Hutchinson attended the University of Arkansas law school at the same time that Bill Clinton started teaching there. He became US attorney in western Arkansas and prosecuted Clinton's half brother, Roger, for cocaine possession.

Hutchinson easily won election as Governor in 1996 to succeed his brother, who moved to the Senate. He combined a conservative voting record with a pleasant demeanor to become an important player in a short time.

Source: Almanac of American Politics on 2022 Arkansas Governor race Oct 5, 2015

The above quotations are from Almanac of American Politics, by Grant Ujifusa and Michael Barone. Click here for other excerpts from Almanac of American Politics, by Grant Ujifusa and Michael Barone. Click here for other excerpts by Asa Hutchinson. Click here for a profile of Asa Hutchinson.
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Page last updated: Dec 02, 2021