Arkansans Democrats, former Gov. Asa Hutchinson visiting Democratic National Convention

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Democratic National Convention marks a major week for the Democrats and is bringing in current and former leaders from the Natural State from both parties.

Along with state Democrats, former Gov. Asa Hutchinson is at the convention doing commentary for a news outlet as well as weighing in with his take on the events. Hutchinson noted that he remains conservative and a member of the Republican party, despite his attendance at the convention.

DPA Strategic Director Will Watson and others in the state party said they are more fired up than ever and ready to bring that excitement back home to Arkansas. They said during a virtual interview from Chicago that it’s important to stress the issues that Arkansans resonate with – no matter their party– that Kamala Harris is running on.

“Making housing more affordable, making groceries more affordable… just standing up for that common middle-class taxpayer,” Watson said. “I think every Arkansas Democrat is aware of the state of national politics in Arkansas, that it’s an uphill battle for Democrats in the Natural State, but the reality is Arkansas voters are fed up with extremism.”

Hutchinson said that despite feeling Democrats have a point with their argument contrasting Harris’ background as a prosecutor and former President Donald Trump’s status as a convicted felon, he still can’t side with either candidate and will be writing in the name of another Republican on his ballot, though he did not say whose name that will be.

Writing in a name not on the ballot means his vote wouldn’t count in Arkansas, though Hutchinson said the point is to send a message that he, and he feels others, are not happy with either of the two remaining candidates. Hutchinson has been adamant throughout Trump’s legal troubles that convictions should stand in the way of any person becoming president.

“He’s a convicted felon and some people in America discount those convictions and they’re politically motivated,” Hutchinson said. “The fact is, it does resonate with many Americans who say, ‘I don’t know that I want to have a convicted felon in the White House.'”

Former President Barack Obama is expected to speak at the DNC Tuesday night, which Watson said Arkansas delegates are looking forward to witnessing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com.