Democratic nominee for Arkansas governor says he’d end Education Freedom Accounts if elected

June 27, 2026 - 04:53

EUREKA SPRINGS -- Democratic nominee for Arkansas governor, State Sen. Fred Love, made a clear pledge Friday to terminate the state's Education Freedom Accounts if he wins the election. Speaking during a gubernatorial debate alongside Libertarian opponent Colt Shelby of Cecil, Love argued the program diverts critical funding away from public schools.

"Education Freedom Accounts are not the answer for Arkansas families," Love said. "We need to invest in our public school system, not drain resources into private accounts that lack accountability." He criticized the current program as a voucher scheme that benefits a small number of students at the expense of the majority.

The Education Freedom Accounts, established under the current administration, allow parents to use state funds for private school tuition or other educational expenses. Supporters say the program gives families more choice, especially in rural areas with limited options. But Love contends it weakens public schools and fails to address teacher shortages or infrastructure needs.

Libertarian candidate Colt Shelby disagreed, calling the accounts a vital tool for parental empowerment. "Families should decide what's best for their children, not the government," Shelby said. He argued that competition from private options forces public schools to improve.

Love's stance sets a sharp contrast in the governor's race, with the Democratic candidate focusing on traditional public school funding. The debate highlighted a key divide as voters consider the future of education policy in Arkansas.