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LISTEN: Former U.S. Senator Weighs In On Iran Conflict

Published

5 months ago

March 2, 2026

Grant Merrill

Grant Merrill · Senator Tim Hutchinson

WASHINGTON — Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply beginning Feb. 28 following U.S. military action that reignited long-standing hostilities and prompted renewed debate in Washington over presidential war powers.

The current conflict is rooted in decades of strained relations between the two nations, dating back to the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the hostage crisis at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. Since that time, Iran has been accused by U.S. officials of supporting proxy groups and engaging in attacks against American interests throughout the Middle East and beyond. The events that unfolded in late February marked one of the most direct confrontations in years, raising concerns about broader regional instability.

South Arkansas Now’s Grant Merrill spoke with former U.S. Sen. Tim Hutchinson, who represented Arkansas from 1997 to 2003 and served on the Senate Armed Services Committee, about the conflict and the debate now emerging on Capitol Hill.

Hutchinson addressed the expected congressional response, saying, “They’re going to be voting, I guess, on the War Powers Resolution to question the Democrats for pushing whether the President had the legal authority to do this.”

He framed the situation through a historical lens, pointing to Iran’s actions over the last several decades.

“I think back, I’m old enough, 47 years ago, when the revolution took place in Iran, and in my mind, they effectively declared war on us 47 years ago, and they’ve been fighting a war against us ever since,” Hutchinson said. “There was, you know, the taking of the hostages, there was the Khobar Towers, and on and on, the proxy terrorists that they have fought against our interest around the world.”

Hutchinson noted that Iran was a major concern during his own tenure in the Senate and remains so today.

“25 years ago, I was in the Senate and on the Armed Services Committee. Now, today, Tom Cotton is in the Senate, he’s on the Armed Services Committee, and 25 years later, we’re still worrying about Iran,” he said.

“I was worrying about it when I was on the committee 25 years ago, and they’ve been fighting us ever since, and we’ve got a President who said, all right, enough’s enough. We’re going to wait after intensive negotiations, giving them every opportunity.”

Hutchinson said he supports the administration’s actions despite acknowledging the risks involved.

“Either we’re going to end this once for all, and so I support what he’s doing,” he said. “There are risks, yes. It’s bold, and my heart goes out to the four service members and their families who’ve already died in this military action.”

He also shared his perspective on how long the conflict could last, emphasizing what he described as the president’s desire to avoid a prolonged war.

“Well, I think the President’s really committed to not having troops on the ground, U.S. troops on the ground. I think he’s committed to not having endless wars, so it may be three or four weeks. He said it acknowledged it may be three or four weeks, but I don’t think it’s going to go longer than that,” Hutchinson said.

He credited U.S. forces for what he called early success in the operation.

“It’s been an amazing military operation so far, and my hat’s off to our amazing armed forces, but we’re going to end their efforts to reinvigorate those nuclear ambitions. We’re going to eliminate that ICBM ballistic missile threat. The regime has been decapitated, this regime that killed literally tens of thousands of their own people, and their ability to fund terrorist groups around the world that threaten us,” Hutchinson said.

Hutchinson acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with military action but said he believes the current effort could reshape the region.

“So, I think it will be a good end, but obviously there are no guarantees in something like this, and it’s a volatile part of the world, but I think the President’s giving us a chance to change the dynamic and to bring real, lasting peace in the Middle East and expand the Abraham Accords and see a different world over there, and wouldn’t that be great?”

The former senator also expressed personal concern for former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, who currently serves as U.S. ambassador to Israel, amid Iran’s counterattacks in the region.

“I’m praying for Ambassador Huckabee and for his wife, Janet, there in Jerusalem,” Hutchinson said. “Jerusalem’s been hit with missiles during Iran’s counterattack, but I support it. I think it had to happen. I admire him. He’s a dear friend.”

“I love him like a brother, and I think he’s the perfect ambassador for us, but it’s a hot spot. He’s right in the middle of a lot of risk and a lot of danger,” Hutchinson continued. “I text him. I try not to bother him a lot, but I stay in touch with him and let him know that there are a lot of folks praying for him back here.”

As the conflict continues, lawmakers remain divided over the scope of presidential authority and the long-term implications of the escalating confrontation, while families of service members and Americans with ties to the region closely follow developments abroad.

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El Dorado School District To Offer Free Breakfast, Elementary School Supplies

Published

10 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO, Ark. — As families prepare for the start of a new school year, the El Dorado School District is working to ease some of the financial burden by providing free meals and classroom supplies for students.

District officials announced that all El Dorado School District students will receive free breakfast during the upcoming school year. In addition, students in kindergarten through fourth grade will receive free instructional school supplies, helping ensure they have the materials they need on the first day of class.

The district says the initiative is part of its ongoing commitment to supporting families, removing barriers to learning and helping every student begin the school year ready for success.

By providing essential resources such as breakfast and classroom supplies, school leaders hope students can focus on learning rather than worrying about basic needs.

The district encourages families to take advantage of the programs as they make final preparations for the new school year.

“At ESD, Every Student Deserves a great start,” the district said in announcing the back-to-school support initiatives.

News

City of El Dorado Seeks Applicants For Airport Commission

Published

10 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — The City of El Dorado is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on the El Dorado Airport Commission.

City officials are seeking qualified applicants to fill a position on the commission, which helps provide oversight and guidance for the operation and future development of South Arkansas Regional Airport at Goodwin Field.

Those interested in serving are encouraged to submit an application before the 5 p.m. deadline on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Residents who would like more information about the position or the application process can contact City Clerk Heather McVay at 870-881-4877 or by email at [email protected].

The City of El Dorado encourages community members who are interested in contributing to the future of local aviation and economic development to apply.

News

Heat Advisory Continues For South Arkansas Counties

Published

11 hours ago

July 22, 2026

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Dangerous heat will continue across South Arkansas today, with the National Weather Service warning that heat index values could climb as high as 109 to 115 degrees in some locations.

Much of Union County and the surrounding South Arkansas region, including El Dorado, remains under a Heat Advisory, while areas farther south and west across East Texas and northern Louisiana are under an Extreme Heat Warning.

Afternoon high temperatures are expected to reach the upper 90s to lower 100s, but the combination of heat and humidity will make it feel significantly hotter.

The National Weather Service says prolonged exposure to these conditions can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions and anyone working or exercising outdoors.

Residents are encouraged to:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, as fans alone may not provide enough cooling during extreme heat.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing if spending time outside.

Officials also remind residents to check on neighbors, relatives and pets during the prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles.

The heat advisory remains in effect through this evening, with forecasters expecting another round of dangerously hot conditions later this week.

News

El Dorado Business Leader Madison Murphy to Receive Statewide Leadership in Free Enterprise Award

Published

1 day ago

July 21, 2026

Sandy Sanford

Madison Murphy being honored as tourism person of the year at the Governor's Conference on Tourism. Photo from GoElDorado.com

LITTLE ROCK, AR – Throughout his career, Madison Murphy has earned a reputation as one of Arkansas’ most respected business leaders, with decades of service spanning corporate leadership, education, philanthropy, and the arts. This fall, that legacy will be recognized on a statewide stage.

The El Dorado native has been named one of two recipients of the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award, presented by Economics Arkansas, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing economic and personal finance education across the state.

Murphy graduated from Hendrix College in Conway in 1980 with a degree in economics and business administration before returning to El Dorado to begin his career with Murphy Oil Corporation as a junior accountant. He quickly advanced through the company’s ranks, serving as a junior auditor and associate auditor before accepting international assignments in London, England, with Murphy Eastern Oil and in New Orleans, Louisiana, with Murphy’s Ocean Drilling and Exploration Company.

Despite opportunities abroad, Murphy chose to return home in 1988, joining Murphy Oil as vice president of planning. Over the years, he held several executive leadership positions, including treasurer, chief financial and administrative officer, and ultimately chairman of the board. He continues to serve as a member of the Murphy Oil Board of Directors.

Beyond Murphy Oil, his leadership has extended across Arkansas’ business and civic landscape. Murphy served for a decade on the Arkansas Highway Commission, spent more than 11 years on the board of BancorpSouth, and also served on the board of Deltic Timber Corporation.

He is a founding member of the Murphy Arts District (MAD), co-owner of Presqu’ile Winery, president of the Murphy Foundation, and has served as chairman of the board of Murphy USA since the company’s 2013 spinoff from Murphy Oil.

Economics Arkansas selected Murphy for the Leadership in Free Enterprise Award in recognition of his commitment to promoting the principles and success of free enterprise throughout Arkansas.

Formerly known as the Arkansas Council on Economic Education, Economics Arkansas equips PreK-12 educators with the training and classroom resources needed to teach economics and personal finance. The organization believes that preparing teachers creates a multiplier effect, allowing generations of Arkansas students to gain practical financial knowledge and a stronger understanding of the marketplace.

Murphy will be honored during the organization’s annual awards ceremony on Nov. 4 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Little Rock. Also receiving recognition that evening will be Walter Hussman Jr., chairman of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Tickets for the event are $125 and may be purchased online or by calling 501-682-4230.

Featured

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers Joins Downtown El Dorado’s Christmas in July Celebration

Published

1 day ago

July 21, 2026

Jax Sanford

EL DORADO, Ark. – Christmas is coming early to historic downtown El Dorado as Murphy-Pitard Jewelers invites the community to celebrate the Christmas in July festivities, taking place Thursday, July 23, through Saturday, July 25.

Following the success of last year’s event, Murphy-Pitard is bringing the celebration back with an even greater focus on festive fun, holiday planning, and the excitement of brand-new jewelry arrivals.

Throughout the three-day event, customers will have the opportunity to get a first look at the store’s newest collections, recently hand-selected at market, while shopping the best selection before the holiday season begins.

“The response to Christmas in July last year was incredible, and we couldn’t wait to bring it back,” said Amanda Pitard, owner of Murphy-Pitard Jewelers. “It’s such a fun way to celebrate with our community, introduce the new pieces we found at market, help customers start their Christmas wish lists early, and remind everyone it’s never too early to start planning for the holidays. Whether you’re beginning your Christmas shopping or simply enjoying the festivities downtown, we hope you’ll stop in and celebrate with us.”

Guests can enjoy holiday treats, festive decorations, Christmas music, and plenty of Christmas cheer while exploring the store’s newest arrivals. Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is proud to join the Downtown Business Association and Main Street El Dorado, celebrating Christmas in July as downtown businesses spread holiday cheer with festive activities and create a fun shopping experience throughout historic downtown El Dorado.

Customers are encouraged to create their Christmas wish list during the event for a chance to win a $500 Murphy-Pitard Jewelers shopping spree through a special Christmas in July Wish & Win giveaway.

For the first time, Murphy-Pitard Jewelers is introducing a special Christmas layaway program during Christmas in July. The three-day offer allows customers to reserve gifts with 0% down, NO interest, and five equal monthly payments, making it easy to plan ahead for the holidays while securing the store’s newest arrivals. (Restrictions apply. See store for complete details.)

Additional highlights include Santa Savings, featuring select merchandise specially marked for the event, as well as a visit from Summer Santa on Saturday.

Murphy-Pitard Jewelers’ Christmas in July will take place during regular business hours:

Thursday- Friday, July 23- July 24: 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 25: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

For more information about Murphy-Pitard Jewelers, visit the store in historic downtown El Dorado, call (870) 863-8818, or follow Murphy-Pitard Jewelers on Facebook for event updates and sneak peeks of the newest arrivals.