Public Officials:
Senate Majority Leader Blake Johnson (R-Corning) – “With the organizational changes made at the Department of Commerce and the direction it needs to go, Hugh is perfectly suited for the job and will be a tremendous asset to Governor-elect Sanders’ administration.”
Speaker Matthew Shepherd (R-El Dorado) – “This is a great appointment. Hugh has a long history in the state and his background and relationships will be invaluable in this new role. I look forward to working with him as we continue to make Arkansas the best place in our nation to do business.”
Industry Leaders:
Jay Chesshir, President and CEO of the Little Rock Regional Chamber – “Governor-elect Sarah Huckabee Sanders' selection of Hugh McDonald as her Secretary of Commerce is a home run for Arkansas. Hugh's experience in private sector management, economic development and workforce education advocacy, along with a keen understanding of how to lead others in achieving excellence, will help Arkansas attain even greater economic success.”
Chris Gosnell, Arkansas Economic Development Commissioner – “Congratulations to Hugh McDonald on his nomination as Secretary of Commerce! He and Governor-elect Sanders will make Arkansas the best place in the nation to start a grow a business, bringing thousands of jobs to Arkansas.”
Michael Lindsey, Vice President of Government Affairs, Walmart – “Excellent choice by @SarahHuckabee for Commerce Secretary. He has tons of economic development and leadership experience that will serve Arkansas well.”
John Newcomb, Arkansas Economic Development Commissioner – “I’m excited about the future of the Arkansas Dept. of Commerce under Gov-elect Sanders and Hugh McDonald’s leadership. This is a great appointment of a qualified, talented individual with workforce development experience that will be an asset to our state.”
Shannon Newton, President, Arkansas Trucking Association – “Excited by what I heard today from Gov-elect @SarahHuckabee. Supporting the workforce needs of industries that already call Arkansas home will not only help them thrive but attract others. Look forward to working with @AR_Commerce to bridge the gap between education & employment”
Tracey Rancifer, Arkansas Economic Development Commissioner – “Hugh’s emphasis on workforce development fits right in what we are doing in Mississippi County at Arkansas Northeastern College. Our Solutions Group develops specialized training for each industry in our area, such as the Arkansas Steelmaking Academy. I’m looking forward to working with Hugh to continue the success we’ve got rolling!”
Gary Sewell, Arkansas Economic Development Commissioner – “Hugh McDonald will be a phenomenal Secretary of the Department of Commerce. His workforce development experience and industry leadership, coupled with Gov-elect Sanders’ vision to take Arkansas to the top with lower taxes and higher paying jobs, will unleash Arkansas’ economic potential.”
Tony Thomas, President and CEO, Windstream - “Hugh McDonald is an excellent choice to lead the Department of Commerce. As the former president and CEO of Entergy Arkansas, Hugh provided strong leadership and vision, particularly in regard to economic development. He will be a great recruiter for new businesses, a strong ally for existing businesses and an effective advocate for workforce development.”
Lorrie Trogden, President and CEO, Arkansas Bankers Association - “We support Gov-elect Sanders’ intent to nominate Hugh McDonald as Secretary of Commerce and look forward to working together to grow our economy! Arkansas has a strong and vibrant banking industry, and the future is bright for our great state!”
Gus Vratsinas, Chairman of the Arkansas Economic Development Foundation – “McDonald is a wonderful choice to lead the Department of Commerce.”
Jon Wickliffe, Arkansas Economic DevelopmentCommissioner – “Tremendous choice by Governor-elect Sarah Huckabee Sanders. As former president and CEO of Entergy, Hugh McDonald has the knowledge and experience to continue to grow our economy and is a proven economic leader. Excited to see the great things that he and the Gov-elect will accomplish for Arkansas.”
Randy Zook, President and CEO for the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas– "A first-rate choice. Sanders could not have found a better candidate - McDonald’s appointment is a smart move by the Governor-elect. Good things are ahead for our state under his leadership."
Organizations:
Little Rock Regional Chamber - “Congrats to Governor-Elect Sarah Huckabee Sanders on appointing Hugh McDonald as the state's new Secretary of Commerce! Nobody knows economic development better than Hugh, and we're excited be working with him once again!”