In landslide race, Rogers wins Republican nomination for Clark County judge

PHOTO: Ron Addington, left, shakes hands with Bill Rogers in the moments after primary election results were announced. Rogers, the victor, will face Michael Ankton in the general election in November. | Joel Phelps/arkadelphian.com

By JOEL PHELPS | arkadelphian.com

Arkadelphia mechanic “Automo” Bill Rogers will head into the November general election as the Republican candidate for Clark County judge after an easy win over Ron Addington.

Rogers took 73% of the overall votes in the primary election, defeating Addington in a 1,247-467 landslide. Rogers now faces a young Democratic candidate Michael Ankton for the county judge’s contest.

First and foremost, Rogers thanked his wife, Denise, for being by his side throughout the campaign. “I couldn’t have done it without her,” said Rogers, 62. “To my family and friends across the county, your prayers and encouragement and votes mean more to me than you know. I’m honored by your confidence in this primary race.” He also thanked supporters for their time and donations to his campaign.

“Now we press on toward November, ready to finish strong and continue working for our county’s future,” Rogers added.

Offering concession remarks, Addington wished Rogers well in the upcoming general election campaign. “I wish him luck,” said Addington. “I was running against someone who has a large family and a large following of firefighters and EMTs. He has a real built-in network that all got out and voted for him. I certainly was willing to serve, but there might be another time when I can contribute to this community.”

Rogers said Addington was a worthy adversary: “It was a very cordial race, and every time we were at meetings we joked back and forth and shook hands. Ron was a very professional opponent.”