Mike Verkler wants to continue serving public
He's running for Lonoke County Judge against Stumbaugh, who once was investigated by FBI
Mike Verkler has a history of public service.
After time with the Cabot Police Department, he served nearly 30 years with the Little Rock Police Department. After that, he became Lonoke County’s Emergency Management Director.
For 21 years, he provided personal security for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks’ head football coach. He also served eight years on presidential security detail for President Bill Clinton.
Now, he wants to continue by serving as Lonoke County Judge.
He is running in the March 3 Republican primary against Mickey D. “Stubby” Stumbaugh.
Verkler says he’s qualified for the job because of his years in public service.
“That experience directly relates to the role of county judge,” his campaign Facebook page states. “The position requires overseeing county departments, managing public resources responsibly and locking arms with other leaders.
“The decisions made by the county judge affect public safety, infrastructure and the daily lives of residents throughout Lonoke County.”
According to a 2007 report, the FBI investigated possible contract irregularities in the Stumbaugh’s administration when he was mayor of Cabot.
“The agency has reportedly gone through city bank statements and the computers of Stumbaugh and the former director of the city’s public works department, investigating the city’s contracts for garbage collection and possibly for engineering services on water and sewer projects,” the report states. “The FBI won’t confirm or deny the existence of an investigation … and Stumbaugh’s adamant there isn’t one.”
Verkler, on the other hand, says transparent, accountable decisions made in the best interest of all people. In fact, he says accountability is one of his hallmarks along with preparation and teamwork. He says he understands how effective county leadership must work across jurisdictions to deliver results.
“The County Judge sets the tone for how county government operates,” his site states. “Strong leadership is not about control or confrontation. It is about collaboration, communication and accountability.
“The County Judge must work closely with the Quorum Court while also staying connected to the people they serve.”
Verkler says government functions more effectively when the County Judge, the Quorum Court and the public work together. He says that results in taxpayer dollars being used more responsibly and trust in local leadership growing stronger.
Verkler says his primary goal is to leave Lonoke County better than he found it.
He says that means some days currently require him working alongside road crews while other days require meeting with state and local leaders to advocate for the county.
He wants to create safer communities, stronger local businesses and better infrastructure. That means working to complete the new justice center, address smaller county road needs and control flooding.
Verkler also is owner and operator of Woodlawn Ranch and Arena in the Woodlawn community. That gives him firsthand experience with the demands of rural life.
His ranch has also served as a gathering place for youth rodeos, competitive events and community activities that support local families and preserve agricultural traditions. He has served as president of the Central Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association and formerly represented the region on the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association State Board, advocating for ranchers and rural families across the state.
Verkler also serves as the vice president of the Farmers’ Association, working alongside producers and landowners on issues affecting agriculture, infrastructure, and rural livelihoods. He also served four terms as chairman of the Arkansas State Championship Horse Show. Through all these roles, he has supported agricultural education, livestock producers and partnerships with local programs such as FFA, 4-H and Cooperative Extension.