Pennington Announces More than 200 Endorsements from Fayetteville Public Safety, Legal and Community Leaders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Blake Pennington
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (October 19, 2026) — On the first day of early voting in Arkansas, Blake Pennington, candidate for Fayetteville City Attorney, announced endorsements from more than 200 elected officials, community leaders, public safety professionals and attorneys throughout Fayetteville, a broad coalition representing every part of the city. (Full endorsement list)
“I'm honored to have the support of the people who serve this community in so many different ways,” Pennington said. “The City Attorney’s Office has an important responsibility to provide sound, independent legal advice that helps city leaders solve problems, protect the public and make decisions in the best interests of Fayetteville.”
Public Safety Endorsements
Pennington received endorsements from Fayetteville Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #10 and Fayetteville Fire Fighters Association IAFF Local 2866, reflecting support from public safety professionals whose work is closely connected to the city’s legal responsibilities.
“Local 2866 believes experience, professionalism, fairness, and a strong understanding of city government are important qualities for the City Attorney,” the Firefighters Association wrote in its endorsement letter. “Blake has spent more than a decade working in the Fayetteville City Attorney’s Office and has experience with the legal issues and day-to-day responsibilities of city government. […] We also appreciate his commitment to treating employees fairly and providing straightforward legal guidance.”
“Your dedication to the City of Fayetteville, your genuine love for the city and its residents, and your outstanding performance as Senior Assistant City Attorney have demonstrated your commitment to serving our community,” the FOP wrote in its letter of endorsement. “Your leadership and understanding of the needs of Fayetteville and its residents are deeply valued by our membership.”
Support from Current City Attorney
Current Fayetteville City Attorney Kit Williams, who knows firsthand what it takes to be successful in the role of City Attorney, backed Pennington as his successor.
Williams stated, "When I made the decision to retire, I did so with confidence Blake has the integrity, knowledge, and expertise to provide the same quality legal service to the City of Fayetteville and its citizens. With 12 years of experience advising commissions, the City Council and city staff, he is well prepared to become the next Fayetteville City Attorney."
Elected Officials and Community Leaders
Pennington also earned endorsements from elected officials and community leaders, business leaders and educators representing Fayetteville.
These include Rep. David Whitaker (Dist. 22), Rep. Denise Garner (Dist. 20), Sen. Greg Leding (Dist. 30), Council Members D'Andre Jones, Bob Stafford, Mike Wiederkehr, Scott Berna, Sarah Bunch, and Justice of the Peace Evelyn Rios Stafford.
"Before I was elected State Rep, I was the Assistant City Attorney for Fayetteville,” said Rep Whitaker. “I understand the specialized nature of the work Blake has been doing in the office and know that he is without a doubt the best candidate to be our next City Attorney."
Support from Fayetteville’s Legal Community
Additionally, attorneys practicing throughout Fayetteville endorsed Pennington, recognizing the value of his municipal law experience and understanding of the legal responsibilities of the City Attorney’s Office.
“There’s been a lot of talk about fighting for what’s best for the city in the race,” Pennington said. “Part of being an effective fighter is knowing what battles to advise picking, and using resources effectively to win. I'm committed to bringing that approach to the City Attorney’s Office and serving Fayetteville with experience and trusted judgment.”
Early voting is underway. Election Day is November 3.
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About Blake Pennington
Blake Pennington is a candidate for Fayetteville City Attorney. Pennington has served in the Fayetteville City Attorney's Office since 2014, acting as Senior Assistant City Attorney to advise the Mayor, City Council, boards and commissions on municipal law, drafting ordinances, negotiating contracts and helping the City navigate complex legal issues. He graduated magna cum laude with a business administration degree from the Sam Walton School of Business at the University of Arkansas, and from the UA School of Law. Pennington is past-president of the board of Peace at Home Family Shelter, past-president of the UA School of Law’s Law Alumni Society Board, past-president of the Arkansas City Attorneys Association, and he is a member of the Rotary Club of Fayetteville.


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