In a recent interview with 40/29 On the Record, the two candidates vying for Arkansas’ 4th congressional district shared their views on several issues that affect the region’s families and businesses. The district stretches across southwest Arkansas, reaching north to Newton County, east to Jefferson County and includes a portion of Pulaski County, the state’s most populous area.
Health‑care focus from Democrat James Russell
James Russell, a central‑Arkansas businessman who works in the mental‑health field and was a 2022 gubernatorial candidate, said his top priority is health care. He warned that more than half of the state’s hospitals no longer have emergency OB‑GYN services, creating “health‑care deserts” for many Arkansans. Russell attributed part of the problem to recent legislation that restricts Medicare and Medicaid access, calling it “the one big, beautiful bill” that has led to service retractions.
Russell also addressed the growing presence of data centers in the state. While he acknowledges their economic potential, he stressed the need for responsible development. He highlighted concerns about utility costs for nearby residents, especially the water and electricity required for cooling large facilities. “If you don’t have enough water supply to handle your regular municipality, you certainly don’t have the excess water to provide the cooling needed for a data center,” he said.
Incumbent Bruce Westerman on technology, security and natural resources
Republican U.S. Representative Bruce Westerman, seeking a seventh term, echoed the importance of data centers but framed them within a national security context. He warned that the United States is in “a bit of a cold war” with China over artificial intelligence, and that failing to adopt the technology could leave the country behind in critical security areas.
Westerman urged local governments to evaluate data‑center projects carefully, recommending that they avoid siting facilities next to residential subdivisions or prime farmland. He emphasized the need to ensure sufficient water, energy and skilled labor before approving construction.
As chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources, Westerman highlighted Arkansas’ abundant water supplies and productive agricultural soils. He said these assets make the state attractive for new residents and investors, noting, “Arkansas has got what America needs.”
Local implications
Both candidates recognize that decisions about health‑care access and technology infrastructure will directly impact families, farms and small businesses throughout the district. Voters in counties such as Pulaski, Jefferson and Newton will weigh these positions as they head to the polls later this year.
The interview provides a snapshot of the policy choices that could shape the district’s economic future and the well‑being of its residents. As the campaign progresses, constituents can expect further discussion on how to balance growth with the preservation of Arkansas’ natural resources and community health.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
