My Position on the Proposed Franklin County Prison

As your state Senate candidate, I want to be clear about my position on the proposed prison in Franklin County: I am firmly against it.

There are several reasons for this stance:

The people of Franklin County have spoken. Residents have overwhelmingly opposed the project, and I believe elected officials must honor the will of the community most directly affected.

Local leaders have consistently opposed it. In addition to the late Senator Gary Stubblefield and Senator Brian King, other county officials have also advocated against the prison, standing firmly with their constituents. I support their leadership and their commitment to the county’s long-term well-being.

The infrastructure is insufficient. Franklin County lacks the necessary infrastructure to support a facility of this scale. Without major and costly upgrades, there is no confidence the project is feasible or fiscally responsible for Arkansas taxpayers.

The legislature has repeatedly rejected it. The proposed funding for the prison was voted down in the State Senate a total of five times, reflecting broad bipartisan concern about the project.

That said, Arkansas does need more bed space. But any solution must be responsible, supported by the community, and sustainable. This means either identifying a more appropriate site with adequate infrastructure—or expanding existing facilities where the costs and impacts are better understood.

Ultimately, we also need to address the root causes that drive the demand for additional bed space—issues like mental health, addiction, and recidivism. Without addressing these underlying problems, building another facility is simply putting a bandaid on a bullet wound.

I am committed to advocating for solutions that are fiscally responsible, community-supported, and focused on long-term safety and justice for all Arkansans.

With respect for all Arkansans,

Joshua Irby

Paid for by Joshua Irby