My Endorsement of Kelly Grappe for Arkansas Secretary of State

Throughout my campaign for the Arkansas State Senate, I have said that our state is strongest when government remains accountable to the people, elections are fair and transparent, and every citizen understands both their rights and their responsibilities.

Those principles are at the heart of my campaign, and they are why I am proud to endorse Kelly Grappe for Arkansas Secretary of State.

The office of Secretary of State is not meant to serve a political party. It exists to serve the people of Arkansas by protecting the integrity of our elections, safeguarding constitutional processes, ensuring transparency, and preserving public confidence in our democratic institutions.

I believe Kelly understands that responsibility.

Her belief that Regnat Populus—“The People Rule”—is more than a slogan reflects something I believe as well: that in Arkansas, government derives its authority from the people. Our state’s Constitution is clear: “All political power is inherent in the people, and government is instituted for their protection, security, and benefit.” Therefore, the highest responsibility of government is to remain accountable to the people and protect their ability to govern themselves.

Throughout this campaign, I have advocated for protecting Arkansas's citizen initiative and referendum process, expanding civic education, strengthening election integrity, increasing transparency, and ensuring that our democratic institutions remain accountable to the public rather than to partisan interests. Kelly has consistently championed these same principles. Her commitment to secure and accessible elections, defending the people's right to petition their government, promoting civic education, and making government more transparent demonstrates a clear understanding of what the Secretary of State's office should be.

What particularly stands out to me is Kelly's belief that civic engagement is not reserved for election years—it is an everyday responsibility. I share her conviction that democracy depends not simply on voting, but on informed citizens who understand how their government works and actively participate in shaping their communities. An informed electorate is one of the greatest safeguards of liberty.

I also appreciate Kelly's commitment to conducting the office in a manner that is transparent, accessible, and people-centered. Every Arkansan—regardless of political party, race, faith, or where they live—deserves confidence that our elections are administered fairly, our public records are accessible, and the constitutional rights of every citizen are protected equally.

While reasonable people will always disagree on particular policies, I believe the Secretary of State's office demands something greater than partisanship. It demands integrity, impartiality, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the people's voice. I believe Kelly Grappe possesses those qualities.

As someone who has dedicated my own campaign to strengthening civic participation, protecting constitutional rights, and restoring trust in public institutions, I am confident that Kelly will faithfully uphold those same principles as Arkansas's next Secretary of State.

I encourage every Arkansan to learn about Kelly Grappe, examine her vision for the office of Secretary of State, and participate in our democratic process. After careful consideration, I believe she possesses the integrity, experience, and commitment to public service necessary to serve as Arkansas’s next Secretary of State, and I am honored to give her my endorsement.

Our democracy is strongest when the people rule—not simply in theory, but in practice. I believe Kelly Grappe is the right leader to help ensure that principle remains at the heart of Arkansas government.

With respect for all Arkansans,

Joshua Irby

Paid for by Joshua Irby