Bobby Wilson (Arkansas)

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Bobby Wilson

Libertarian Party

Elections and appointments

Last election

November 5, 2024

Personal

Birthplace

Greenville, N.C.

Religion

Agnostic

Profession

Management

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Twitter

Personal Facebook

Bobby Wilson (Libertarian Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Wilson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Bobby Wilson was born in Greenville, North Carolina. His career experience includes working in management.

Elections

2024

See also: Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District election, 2024

Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District election, 2024 (March 5 Republican primary)

Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District election, 2024 (March 5 Democratic primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Arkansas District 3

Incumbent Steve Womack defeated Caitlin Draper Mattelin and Bobby Wilson in the general election for U.S. House Arkansas District 3 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Steve Womack (R)	63.8	192,101
		Caitlin Draper Mattelin (D)	31.8	95,652
		Bobby Wilson (L)	4.4	13,331

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 301,084
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

The Democratic primary election was canceled. Caitlin Draper Mattelin advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Arkansas District 3.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Arkansas District 3

Incumbent Steve Womack defeated Clint Penzo in the Republican primary for U.S. House Arkansas District 3 on March 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Steve Womack	53.9	35,768
		Clint Penzo	46.1	30,545

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 66,313
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Libertarian convention

Libertarian convention for U.S. House Arkansas District 3

Bobby Wilson advanced from the Libertarian convention for U.S. House Arkansas District 3 on February 25, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Bobby Wilson (L)	92.7	38
		Other/Write-in votes	7.3	3

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 41
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Wilson in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Bobby Wilson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Wilson's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Hello, my name is Bobby Wilson, and I am running for the United States Congress.

Ten years ago, I packed up my life in Colorado and moved to Bentonville, Arkansas. Bentonville welcomed me with open arms, and from the moment I arrived, it felt like home.

The people here in Arkansas embody the spirit of resilience and self-reliance. Whether it's a neighbor lending a hand or a community coming together in times of need, there's a real sense of togetherness. I've been proud to call this place my home for the past decade.

My first corporate experience involved helping a company achieve ISO certification. This role was an eye-opener, teaching me the importance of well-defined processes and transparent documentation.

After moving to Bentonville, I took on the role of managing a trim lumber yard. Running this business has given me firsthand experience with the challenges and rewards of small business ownership. Every day, I see the impact of hard work and dedication on our operations.

On a personal level, I am blessed to have been married to my wonderful wife for six years. Our marriage is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to supporting each other's dreams and aspirations.

I am also an avid practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), holding a brown belt. BJJ has taught me invaluable lessons in discipline, perseverance, and the importance of continuous self-improvement.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• As your representative, I promise to champion technological innovation and progress. I will advocate for policies that harness the power of AI and other emerging technologies to enhance government transparency, efficiency, and accessibility. By supporting secure, transparent voting systems using blockchain and promoting smart governance, we can streamline public services and boost public confidence. I am committed to ensuring that our technological advancements are balanced with robust privacy protections.
• As your representative, I am committed to championing localism. I believe that the best solutions come from within our communities. By empowering local governments and supporting community-driven initiatives, we can address our unique needs more effectively. I will advocate for policies that give more control to local authorities, ensuring that decisions reflect the values and priorities of our neighborhoods. Supporting local businesses and fostering community engagement will create a vibrant, resilient economy.
• As your representative, I will advocate for hard money policies that ensure economic stability and fairness. We want an economy that serves the consumers, not the money printers. By supporting a stable and sound monetary system, we can protect our savings from inflation and promote sustainable growth. Hard money fosters responsible fiscal policies, discourages excessive government spending, and strengthens our financial future. Together, we can build an economy that prioritizes the well-being of everyday citizens over short-term gains.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

The reality of the situation that we can't fix our budget. The US has about 175 trillion dollars in unfunded liabilities and neither party is doing anything about it. The only way to survive is to allow life boats. We need to build new structures outside of our current governance. The deficit won't be an issue this election, but it should be.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to individuals who are builders and innovators, like Brian Armstrong, Balaji Srinivasan, and Norm Macdonald. Brian Armstrong, as the co-founder of Coinbase, has revolutionized the way we think about and use digital currencies, promoting financial freedom and innovation. Balaji Srinivasan is a visionary in the tech world, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible with technology and advocating for decentralized systems. Norm Macdonald, though primarily known as a comedian, built a unique and influential career through his wit, integrity, and fearless honesty. These individuals exemplify the power of building and creating, and I aspire to follow their example by fostering innovation, embracing new ideas, and maintaining a steadfast commitment to integrity.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

If you want to understand my political philosophy, I highly recommend the essay "I, Pencil" by Leonard E. Read. This classic piece beautifully illustrates the complexity of the free market and the power of individual liberty. It tells the story of a simple pencil, demonstrating how countless people, each pursuing their own interests and cooperating voluntarily, contribute to the creation of something as seemingly simple as a pencil. This essay captures the essence of my belief in the power of free markets, voluntary cooperation, and the incredible outcomes that arise when individuals are free to innovate and collaborate.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

The most important characteristics and principles for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and a genuine commitment to public service. Integrity ensures that decisions are made with honesty and ethical consideration, fostering trust with constituents. Accountability means being responsible for one's actions, transparent in decision-making, and open to scrutiny, ensuring that the public is always informed and engaged. A genuine commitment to public service means prioritizing the needs and well-being of the community above personal or political gain, demonstrating a true dedication to making a positive impact.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am good at management and I can read fast.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities for someone elected to Congress include serving as a conduit between constituents and the federal government, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed. This involves actively listening to the concerns of the community and facilitating solutions where possible. Additionally, upholding the legislative process is crucial, which means crafting, debating, and voting on laws that reflect the best interests of the people while adhering to constitutional principles. Effective representation, transparency, and accountability are essential to fulfilling these responsibilities with integrity and dedication.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I'm comfortable not leaving a legacy. If people remember me as someone who is nice and made things marginally better, I'd be happy with that.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember Operation Desert Storm. I still think about singing all of those pro American songs in school. Looking back it's kind of weird.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was a dishwasher at a Mexican Restaurant when I was 15. I ate a lot of chimichangas.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is "The Machiavellians" by James Burnham. This book provides a deep dive into political theory and remains incredibly relevant today. Burnham's analysis of power structures and political dynamics offers valuable insights into how political systems function and the behaviors of those within them. It has profoundly influenced my understanding of politics, helping me navigate the complexities of political strategy and governance with a more informed and critical perspective.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod. Unfortunately, I never looked good with long hair and a trench coat.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Mickey - Toni Basil - It makes me think of Wayne's World

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Sometimes I struggle with apathy. I know I am not a super genius or super athlete and I have basically reached the level of life I will reach. Eventually I convince myself, I'd rather help make the world a better place than coast in decline

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S. House of Representatives possesses several unique qualities that distinguish it as an institution. One of its most significant powers is the "power of the purse," which gives it the authority to initiate revenue bills and control federal spending. This role is crucial for ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability within the government.

Additionally, the House holds the exclusive ability to declare war, making it a vital component in decisions related to national security and military engagement. These powers, combined with its role in representing the diverse interests of the American people through its large and varied membership, make the House of Representatives a unique and essential institution in the U.S. government.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

I believe that previous experience in government or politics can be beneficial, but it's often overrated. What we truly need are talented individuals from diverse backgrounds who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Attracting talent from various fields, such as business, science, education, and the arts, can enrich our legislative process and lead to more well-rounded and effective policymaking. By broadening the pool of candidates, we can ensure that our government is representative of the diverse experiences and expertise of the American people.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

The deficit will be the biggest issue. The federal government will have to impose austerity, print money, and seize mores assets to pay for anything. It's going to be bad for a lot of people.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes, I believe that two years is the right term length for representatives. The House of Representatives is designed to be the most democratic office in the federal government, with its members being closest to the electorate. A two-year term ensures that representatives remain highly accountable to their constituents and responsive to their needs and concerns. This frequent election cycle keeps the House closely aligned with the will of the people, allowing for rapid adjustments to reflect the public's evolving priorities and sentiments.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I'm not against them but I have doubts about whether they would do anything. It would be easier disperse the power.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Yes, I admire Justin Amash and his approach to representation. His transparency and dedication to explaining his voting decisions through detailed Twitter threads were incredibly helpful and insightful. By providing clear, thoughtful explanations, he helped constituents understand the reasoning behind his actions and fostered a greater sense of trust and accountability. I aim to model myself after his commitment to transparency, integrity, and clear communication with the public.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I have too many. I have several friends that joined the military and their bodies are broken. For what? I have family who suffer from pain, but the best medication is illegal, even though it's a plant. The federal government infects our lives in so many ways, it tough to narrow it down.

Tell us your favorite joke.

That's bait.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I believe that compromise is necessary and desirable for policymaking, but only if the other side is acting in good faith. When both parties are genuinely interested in finding common ground and working towards the best interests of the public, compromise can lead to effective and balanced policies. However, if one side is not acting in good faith, it may be more prudent to use principles from game theory to navigate the situation strategically. This approach ensures that we remain principled and avoid being taken advantage of while still striving for the best possible outcomes.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

The Constitution states that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. However, Congress often passes laws in ways that skirt constitutional requirements, allowing for the passage of many spending bills that don't adhere to these principles. Given this reality, I will prioritize voting "no" on legislation that I believe to be unconstitutional or fiscally irresponsible. My goal is to uphold constitutional integrity and ensure that any spending bills are transparent, justified, and truly serve the best interests of the American people.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The U.S. House should use its investigative powers judiciously and avoid grandstanding. These powers are essential for ensuring accountability and transparency within the government. Investigations should be conducted with a clear focus on uncovering the truth and addressing legitimate concerns, rather than for political showmanship. By approaching investigations with diligence, fairness, and a commitment to justice, the House can maintain its integrity and effectively serve the public interest

What committees interest you?

Probably commerce, but since you have to pay for committee positions it won't happen.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I strongly support financial transparency and government accountability. It's crucial for citizens to have a clear understanding of how their tax dollars are being spent and how government decisions impact our nation. I advocate for the creation of a government dashboard that would provide accessible, real-time information on key metrics. This would help everyone see if the country is on the right track. Currently, government operations are too opaque and confusing for the average person. By making information more transparent and straightforward, we can foster greater trust and engagement between the government and the public.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign website

Wilson's campaign website stated the following:

“	Appliances that Work The EPA has nerfed all appliances in the name of "efficiency". Dishwashers and Washing Machines take longer and use way more chemicals. This must end. Sovereign Money My campaign for US Congress supports a separation of Money & State Local Control Let New York be New York, Let California be California, Let Arkansas be Arkansas Use AI to better interface with the VA In digital age's embrace, we seek to find, A path through red tape, with ease in our mind. With AI's keen wit, we pledge to unite, The veterans' cause, in their valiant fight. No longer lost, in bureaucracy's maze, We'll guide them through, with technology's grace. Their service honored, with every step made, Our commitment firm, their trust not betrayed. For health, for support, no request too small, A representative, true to the call. Nuclear Power To cool the warm earth, A pledge we now birth. With nuclear's might, We fight the good fight. Clean power, our quest, For all, it's the best. Safe, efficient glow, To make futures grow. This promise we hold, In stories untold. Data-Driven Analytics From coast to coast, from urban sprawl to rural homesteads, we pledge transparency in every dollar spent and every dollar saved. Our campaign is rooted in the belief that every taxpayer deserves insight from the highest peaks of government expenditure to the deepest valleys of fiscal savings. Through the lens of data analytics and the clarity of digital dashboards, we promise to shed light on the intricate dance of federal finances, illuminating every shadowed corner of budget allocations and expenditures. Our commitment stands firm: to bridge the divide between government actions and public knowledge, ensuring that from the first penny to the last, every citizen is empowered with understanding and oversight over the nation's purse strings.	”
—Bobby Wilson's campaign website (2024)

Campaign finance summary

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Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

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Bobby Wilson campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2024*	U.S. House Arkansas District 3	Lost general	$0	N/A**
Grand total			$0	N/A**
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete
** Data on expenditures is not available for this election cycle
Note: Totals above reflect only available data.

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Candidate

U.S. House Arkansas District 3

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Footnotes

[show]

Arkansas' current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

John Boozman (R)

Tom Cotton (R)

Representatives

District 1

Rick Crawford (R)

District 2

French Hill (R)

District 3

Steve Womack (R)

District 4

Bruce Westerman (R)

Republican Party (6)