Deserving better

Editor, The Commercial: Supporters and constituents of Jefferson County Quorum Court District 5, first and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who stood by me and supported my reelection campaign. Your unwavering dedication and belief in our shared vision for Jefferson County have been a source of inspiration and strength throughout this challenging journey.

Unfortunately, as the election results have shown, our campaign did not secure the victory we had hoped for. While this outcome is undoubtedly disappointing, I remain steadfast in my commitment to serve the people of Jefferson County with integrity and dedication.

It is with a heavy heart that I must acknowledge the role of local media interference in this election. The biased and one-sided reporting, aimed at swaying public opinion against members of the Quorum Court, including myself, is a disheartening reflection of the challenges we face in maintaining transparency and accountability in our government.

I refuse to accept that the future of Jefferson County should be decided by the weaponization of local media. Our democracy deserves better, and I vow to utilize all necessary resources to expose any illegal, unethical, or criminal wrongdoing within our county government.

I remain resolute in my commitment to upholding the principles of ethics, democracy, and fiscal accountability that are the foundation of our democracy. Despite the obstacles we face, I am confident that together, we can work towards a brighter future for Jefferson County.

Once again, thank you to all who supported our campaign. Your voices matter, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to fight alongside each and every one of you.

LLOYD FRANKLIN II, PINE BLUFF