Former Arkansas Governor Jim Guy Tucker has passed away at the age of 81 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Tucker, who succeeded Bill Clinton as governor and later faced conviction during the Whitewater investigation, died from complications related to ulcerative colitis.
Tucker, known for his adventurous spirit and love of music and the outdoors, served as governor from 1992 to 1996. Despite winning re-election in 1994, Tucker was later convicted of lying about the use of a government-backed loan and pleaded guilty to a tax conspiracy charge in 1998. He spent years fighting to withdraw his plea, claiming he was improperly charged.
Tucker’s involvement in the Whitewater investigation was tangential to Clinton and stemmed from misuse of a government loan. Following his initial conviction, Tucker announced his resignation but later rescinded it, causing confusion over who was running the state. Despite these challenges, he remained dedicated to public service.
Former President Bill Clinton praised Tucker’s contributions to Arkansas and criticized his forced resignation as unjust. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders also lauded Tucker’s dedication to public service.
Tucker’s political career began in 1970 as a prosecuting attorney and included serving as attorney general and in Congress. He faced health challenges throughout his life, including ulcerative colitis and sclerosing cholangitis.
Tucker, survived by his wife, children, and stepchildren, remained active in public life even after his legal troubles. He will be remembered for his dedication to Arkansas and his commitment to serving the people of the state.
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