State Rep. Johnny Hoyt announces candidacy for Senate seat

State Rep. Johnny Hoyt (D-Morrilton) announced this week his candidacy for Arkansas state Senate in District 18. The seat is being vacated by Sen. Bob Bob Johnson due to term-limits.

Hoyt is a retired educator and is serving his second term as state representative. He was first elected to the House of Representatives for District 60 in 2006 and ran unopposed his second term in 2008.

"I am excited about my decision to seek the position of state senator for District 18," Hoyt said. "I am very proud of the job I have done representing my constituents of District 60. Being elected to the Senate will give me the opportunity to make District 18 and our state the best place to educate our children, earn a living and raise a family."

During the last session, Hoyt was elected by his peers to chair the Legislative Joint Audit Committee. He also led the effort to secure more than $9 million in funding for Arkansas' dairy farmers. Ten years ago, there were 2,000 dairy farms and today that number is down to 120.

Hoyt, a farmer himself, said he understands the importance of protecting rural life in Arkansas and wants to ensure the continued success of Arkansas farmers.

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Hoyt grew up in Morrilton and graduated from Sacred Heart School. He holds an undergraduate degree from Arkansas Tech University, a master degree in counselors education, a principal certification from the University of Arkansas, and a superintendent's certification from the University of Central Arkansas.

Hoyt lives in Morrilton with his wife of 36 years, Libby. They have one daughter, Michelle (Andy) Hightower and three granddaughters. Hoyt has five brothers and six sisters.