State Representative Monte Hodges is one of Arkansas’s brightest Democratic stars, and he’s getting some national attention. He has been selected to join a national network of state and local elected officials, the NewDEAL (Developing Exceptional American Leaders). Hodges was recognized along with 20 other leaders nationwide, to help craft and carry out a progressive agenda for the group, which is led by Honorary Co-Chairs U.S. Senator Mark Warner of Virginia and former Delaware Governor Jack Markell.

“As we continue to fight for progress and equality of opportunity for people in District 55 and northeast Arkansas, I look forward to sharing the lessons we have learned and hearing from other leaders who are setting the standard for effective governance,” said Hodges. “I’m excited to be a part of this new class and to work with them on NewDEAL’s efforts to make the new economy work for everyone in communities nationwide.”

Rep. Hodges represents parts of Mississippi and Crittenden counties in northeast Arkansas. He’s earned a high level of support from his Delta constituents for his work in the district and down at the state Capitol.

Hodges sits on the powerful House Revenue and Taxation Committee, where in the 2019 Legislative session he pushed back against a massive tax giveaway for only the wealthy, and instead advocated for real tax relief for working families. Hodges has also pursued work on numerous pieces of legislation to make Arkansas’s criminal justice system more fair, and to open-up employment opportunities for people who were once incarcerated.

Hodges is a rising star to watch in Arkansas politics.