Two leaders on respect, bipartisanship and public service.

PositionTAKING THE FLOOR - Interview

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

Senator Paul Bookout (D)

Arkansas Senate President Pro Tempore

SL: How do you work with the other party?

Bookout: I work extremely well with all senators, and my ability to do so is not based on party affiliation. I have a great deal of respect for members of both parties and their respective districts; regardless of party or seniority, everyone has a place at the table. Our Senate leadership is bipartisan, including diverse party chairmanships. It is in the best interest of the Senate to remain this way and is an effective way of getting things done. Arkansas has been successful in maintaining this balance and avoiding the polarization that can lead to ineffective government.

SL: What's the greatest asset you bring to the job?

Bookout: I bring a lifetime of experience. I was fortunate to have been raised in the state legislature. After six years in the House, my father was elected to the Senate and spent more than 30 years representing Craighead County, including serving as president pro tempore. I was interested in his work and exposed to all angles of government.

SL: What do you wish you'd known before you became a leader?

Bookout: Without question, I knew the position would require a tremendous amount of time, but I was not fully knowledgeable of the impact it would have on my ability to be involved with my committees. I love the committee aspect of the legislative process. It is where the rubber meets the road. I enjoy debating and carrying legislation. However, time constraints and responsibilities drastically reduced my committee involvement. This was not a huge surprise, but I still wanted to be in two or more places at one time.

SL: How would members of your party describe you? And those from the other party?

Bookout: Regardless of which party you ask, I think I would be described as fair. I am and have always been a proud Arkansas Democrat and am extremely proud of the political heritage of the party. I've worked hard to pay my dues and do my part to serve my state. I respect the beliefs of any party and operate from a bipartisan standpoint, reviewing issues on the merits, and doing what I think is in the best interest of my constituency and the State of Arkansas. Some may find fault that I am not regarded as a huge "party person," but I hope I have their respect for seeing issues clearly and completely.

SL: What would you be doing if you weren't in the legislature?

Bookout: I love what I am doing today as...

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