Oliver served as the State Party Chair from 2001-2005, then served 15 years as the director of the Arkansas Racing Commission. Many State Party employees and campaign consultants trace their start in politics back to Oliver’s generosity and keen eye for talent. 

His tenure at the Democratic Party of Arkansas was marked with historic successes, including defeating incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Tim Hutchinson, winning all open statewide constitutional offices, increasing Democratic majorities in the state legislature, and opening statewide field offices. 

“Ron Oliver was a dear friend of mine,” said Vaughn McQuary, another former State Party Chair who preceded Oliver in the role.  “He served as Chairman of the Democratic Party, but I can assure everyone his efforts to better Arkansas were not partisan in nature. They were a result of his love for the great state of Arkansas. He will be missed.”

“Ron Oliver was a lion in Arkansas Democratic politics for more than 50 years,” said Michael Cook, a longtime political consultant and the State Party Executive Director under Oliver. “He fought tirelessly for Democratic candidates and the Democratic Party and made a difference in countless ways. His dedication to fighting for what's right will never be forgotten. I am heartbroken with his passing.”

Party Chair Grant Tennille praised Oliver for his loyalty and dedication, “In recent days, Ron was talking to me about the future of the Democratic Party of Arkansas and how he could help us. There just wasn’t any talk of retiring or taking it easy, at least when it came to politics.

“Ron was a Democrat, full stop. This Party will feel his loss.” 

Press inquiries can be sent to Reed Brewer at [email protected] or by text/call to 501-580-0568.