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Trevor McGarrah

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Trevor McGarrah
Image of Trevor McGarrah
Elections and appointments
Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

Bachelor's

University of Arkansas, 2007

Graduate

University of Arkansas, 2008

Personal
Birthplace
Springfield, Mo.
Religion
Christian
Profession
Teacher
Contact

Trevor McGarrah (Democratic Party) ran for election to the Arkansas House of Representatives to represent District 58. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

McGarrah completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Trevor McGarrah was born in Springfield, Missouri. He earned a bachelor's and a graduate degree from the University of Arkansas in 2007 and 2008, respectively. His career experience includes working as a logistics manager and a teacher. McGarrah has been affiliated with Citizens for Arkansas Public Education and Students.[1]

Elections

2024

See also: Arkansas House of Representatives elections, 2024

General election

General election for Arkansas House of Representatives District 58

Incumbent Les Eaves defeated Trevor McGarrah in the general election for Arkansas House of Representatives District 58 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Les Eaves
Les Eaves (R)
 
75.5
 
8,776
Image of Trevor McGarrah
Trevor McGarrah (D) Candidate Connection
 
24.5
 
2,844

Total votes: 11,620
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

The Democratic primary election was canceled. Trevor McGarrah advanced from the Democratic primary for Arkansas House of Representatives District 58.

Republican primary election

The Republican primary election was canceled. Incumbent Les Eaves advanced from the Republican primary for Arkansas House of Representatives District 58.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for McGarrah in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Trevor McGarrah completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by McGarrah's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Trevor McGarrah, a dedicated public servant and seasoned educator residing in Searcy, AR, located in District 58, brings a unique background spanning teaching, logistics, and pest control. Trevor understands the diverse challenges faced by everyday Arkansans, instilled with a deep sense of pride in performing every job with utmost dedication.

Open to dialogue with all stakeholders, from blue-collar workers to C-suite leaders, Trevor is committed to ensuring that policy decisions are informed by the real-world perspectives of those impacted. His passion for government transparency is evident as he supports a ballot initiative to embed FOIA protections in the Arkansas Constitution.

Additionally, Trevor is devoted to strengthening and improving public education, recognizing its pivotal role in building a thriving community. With a vision for a more equitable, transparent, and resilient Arkansas, he is prepared to represent the diverse voices of District 58. Join Trevor on the journey towards positive change, where his wealth of experience and commitment to understanding the community's needs will shape a brighter future for all.
  • We must advocate for increased openness and transparency in government, for it is through these principles that true accountability is fostered. Without a transparent government, the essential foundation for accountability remains elusive.
  • We must safeguard personal liberties, including advocating for the autonomy of women in healthcare decisions and ensuring that LGBTQ individuals are afforded the same protections as their fellow Arkansans.
  • We require a robust public education system where public tax dollars are dedicated to enhancing public schools. It is crucial that these funds remain within the public education domain, as diverting them to private schools without comparable regulations jeopardizes the integrity of our educational standards.
Trevor McGarrah's impassioned dedication to public education policy issues stems from a pivotal moment marked by the introduction of the LEARNS Act in Arkansas. As a seasoned educator, he recognized the potential detrimental impact of this legislation on the state's public education system. The act, far from addressing the genuine challenges faced by schools, seemed to exacerbate them by channeling public funds to private institutions and perpetuating a tiered education system.

This realization became the catalyst for Trevor's foray into politics, fueled by a commitment to rectify the disconnect between legislative decisions and the insights of those directly involved in education. His firsthand experience as a teacher and the frustrations encountered in attempting to communicate concerns to legislators underscore the pressing need for change.

In his advocacy for public education policy, Trevor emphasizes the importance of transparency, equitable funding, and prioritizing the voices of educators in decision-making. By channeling his passion and expertise, he aspires to dismantle barriers to quality education, ensuring that every student in Arkansas receives the support and resources necessary for their success. Trevor McGarrah's journey into politics is, at its core, a response to the urgency of safeguarding the future of public education in the state.
Several qualities contribute to my potential success as an officeholder:

1. Diverse Experience: With a background spanning education, management, and service roles, I bring a multifaceted understanding of the challenges faced by everyday Arkansans, allowing me to approach policymaking with a comprehensive perspective.

2. Resilience: My career journey, marked by adaptability and persistence through various roles, demonstrates my resilience and commitment to overcoming challenges. This quality will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of legislative responsibilities.

3. Advocacy Skills: As a teacher and someone deeply invested in education policy, I possess strong advocacy skills, enabling me to effectively champion initiatives that enhance public education, transparency, and personal liberties.

4. Collaborative Approach: I believe in fostering collaboration and building relationships across party lines to create an inclusive legislative environment that addresses the diverse needs of all Arkansans.

5. Commitment to Transparency: With a firm belief in government transparency, I prioritize open communication, accessibility, and accountability in all legislative processes.

6. Empathy and Understanding: Having worked in various fields and experienced the struggles of everyday Arkansans, I bring a deep sense of empathy and understanding, ensuring that my policymaking decisions are grounded in the real-world experiences of constituents.

These qualities collectively contribute to my vision of being a dedicated, effective, and empathetic representative for the people of District 58.
From my perspective, the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office include:

1. Representation: To authentically represent the diverse voices and needs of the constituents in District 58, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed in the legislative process.

2. Policy Advocacy: Actively advocate for policies that enhance public education, prioritize government transparency, protect personal liberties, and address the challenges faced by Arkansans in areas such as healthcare and labor.

3. Collaboration: Foster collaborative relationships with fellow legislators, regardless of party affiliations, to create a more inclusive and effective legislative environment.

4. Committee Work: Actively participate in and contribute to relevant committees, such as the Education Committee and the Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee, leveraging expertise to influence positive change in these areas.

5. Community Engagement: Engage with constituents regularly, seeking their input, attending community events, and ensuring an open line of communication to stay informed about their needs and concerns.

6. Transparency: Prioritize government transparency by advocating for open communication, accessibility, and accountability in legislative processes.

In essence, the core responsibilities revolve around being a dedicated advocate for the people, contributing constructively to legislative initiatives, and working collaboratively to shape policies that enhance the well-being of all residents in District 58 and across Arkansas.
The legacy I aspire to leave involves fostering positive and lasting change in the lives of Arkansans. I hope to be remembered as someone who bridged divides, working collaboratively across party lines to address the pressing issues facing our state. My legacy should embody a tireless commitment to improving the well-being of everyday Arkansans, especially those facing economic challenges.

I aim to be remembered as a dedicated advocate for public education, championing policies that create equal opportunities for every student. I also want my legacy to reflect a commitment to government transparency, ensuring that the voices of all constituents are heard and considered in the legislative process.

Ultimately, I aspire to leave behind a legacy of empathy, understanding, and effective representation. Whether it's through education reform, transparent governance, or fostering unity, I want to be remembered as a public servant who made a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of the people I served in District 58 and throughout Arkansas.
At the age of eight, my first vivid recollection of a historical event was my father's deployment when his Army Reserves unit was called into active duty during the Persian Gulf War. It marked a challenging period for our family, filled with stress and uncertainty. Communication became sporadic, relying on occasional phone calls and written letters. The fear of the unknown, especially the uncertainty of my father's return from war, was a profound struggle for a young child.

Deployed around Christmas, though the exact date escapes me, we found a unique way to cope. Each day he was away, we adorned our Christmas tree with a yellow ribbon—a poignant reminder of the passage of time until his safe return. This early experience left an indelible mark, shaping my understanding of sacrifice, resilience, and the impact of historical events on individual lives. It also instilled in me a deep admiration for our military men and women and the continual sacrifices their families endure, fostering a profound respect for their unwavering commitment to service.
While I know this song is a little bit older, it is still one of my all-time favorite songs. It pops into my mind every time I feel down or wonder what I should do in a situation. The last song that got stuck in my head is Bon Jovi's "It's My Life."

This resonates with me personally because the lyrics embody a spirit of individuality and determination. The song's message about taking control of one's life, making choices, and living authentically aligns with my perspective on advocacy and making a positive impact. "It's My Life" reflects the belief that we have the power to shape our destiny, and that sentiment resonates with my commitment to being a dedicated advocate for education, government transparency, and the well-being of everyday Arkansans. The energetic and empowering nature of the song serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one's principles and making a meaningful contribution to the world. It's an anthem I have frequently referenced in conversations.
In my perspective, the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature is one built on open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect. It's essential for both branches to work together harmoniously, recognizing their distinct roles in shaping policies and serving the best interests of the people. A healthy balance of power, where checks and balances are respected, ensures that decisions are well-considered and representative of the diverse needs of our state.

Transparency is paramount; the governor and the state legislature should maintain clear and honest communication to foster a climate of trust. Regardless of party affiliations, a constructive relationship is vital for effective governance. The governor should be willing to work with members of both parties, avoiding the exclusion of the opposition party from policy discussions. Embracing a collaborative approach and considering a variety of perspectives is key to fostering inclusivity and achieving positive outcomes for all Arkansans.
From my perspective, one of the significant challenges facing Arkansas over the next decade lies in fostering a more inclusive and transparent government. The current dominance of one-party rule has raised concerns about whether the diverse needs, wants, and wishes of all Arkansans are adequately represented. To address this, it's crucial to work towards a more balanced and collaborative political landscape, where the voices of citizens are heard and respected, regardless of their political affiliations.
While I don't possess prior experience in legislating, I acknowledge the potential benefits it can bring. However, I firmly believe in the importance of cultivating a state legislature that authentically represents the diverse population of Arkansas. A decade of single-party rule has underscored the need for fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. The current status quo doesn't effectively address the needs of everyday Arkansans.

I advocate for a more inclusive approach that considers a broader range of experiences. While experience in politics is valuable, it should complement a legislature that reflects the rich tapestry of our state. It's time to break away from the patterns of the past and introduce new, dynamic ideas that truly work for all Arkansans. A legislature that champions diversity in both background and thought is essential for addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities facing our state in the coming years.
I strongly believe in the importance of building relationships with other legislators. My experiences have highlighted the significance of collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect in achieving effective policymaking. Establishing relationships across party lines fosters a more inclusive and cooperative legislative environment, enabling the exchange of diverse perspectives and ideas.

Given the challenges posed by a decade of single-party rule in Arkansas, building bridges becomes even more crucial. By cultivating relationships with legislators from different backgrounds and affiliations, we can break down partisan barriers and work towards solutions that genuinely benefit all Arkansans.

Moreover, effective relationships contribute to a more transparent and accountable government. It encourages the sharing of expertise and insights, leading to well-informed decisions that address the complex needs of our diverse state. In essence, building strong relationships with fellow legislators is not just beneficial but essential for fostering a collaborative and responsive legislative body.
Yes, I firmly believe that compromise is both necessary and desirable for effective policymaking. It's crucial to find common ground and consider diverse perspectives to create legislation that serves the best interests of the community. Compromise allows for the incorporation of various viewpoints, fostering collaboration and ensuring that the resulting policies are balanced and fair.

In Arkansas, the challenges of one-party rule have become apparent, raising concerns among many Arkansans. The hyper-partisan legislature has sparked worry that the diverse needs, wants, and wishes of ALL Arkansans might not be adequately represented. Emphasizing the importance of compromise becomes even more significant in this context, as it can help break down partisan barriers and lead to policies that truly address the concerns of the entire state.
I am particularly interested in serving on the Education Committee due to my background as an educator and concerns about improving public education in the state. Additionally, I find the Public Health, Welfare, and Labor Committee aligns with my desire to increase protection of personal liberties. I am particularly drawn to this committee as it provides an avenue to ensure that all groups in Arkansas have a voice in policy decisions impacting the state's future. These committees present valuable platforms for me to contribute meaningfully to the improvement of education and advocate for inclusive policies that consider the diverse needs of all Arkansans.

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 finance summary


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.


Trevor McGarrah campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Arkansas House of Representatives District 58Lost general$5,856 $11
Grand total$5,856 $11
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal 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

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on December 3, 2023


Current members of the Arkansas House of Representatives
Leadership
Majority Leader:Howard Beaty
Minority Leader:Andrew Collins
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
John Carr (R)
District 16
District 17
District 18
District 19
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
Brad Hall (R)
District 25
District 26
District 27
District 28
District 29
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
Joey Carr (R)
District 35
District 36
District 37
District 38
District 39
District 40
District 41
District 42
District 43
Rick Beck (R)
District 44
District 45
District 46
District 47
District 48
Ryan Rose (R)
District 49
District 50
District 51
District 52
District 53
District 54
District 55
District 56
District 57
District 58
Les Eaves (R)
District 59
District 60
District 61
District 62
District 63
District 64
District 65
District 66
District 67
District 68
District 69
David Ray (R)
District 70
District 71
District 72
District 73
District 74
District 75
District 76
District 77
District 78
District 79
District 80
District 81
RJ Hawk (R)
District 82
District 83
District 84
District 85
District 86
District 87
District 88
District 89
District 90
District 91
District 92
District 93
District 94
District 95
District 96
District 97
District 98
District 99
Lane Jean (R)
District 100
Republican Party (81)
Democratic Party (19)