Decision Maker

John Thurston

Former Arkansas Secretary of State

Arkansas

John Manuel Thurston is an American politician and Christian minister from Arkansas. A member of the Republican Party, he has served as the Secretary of State of Arkansas since 2019. Thurston was first elected to this position in November 2018 and successfully won re-election in 2022. Before his current role, he was the Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands from 2011 to 2019. In August 2023, he announced his candidacy for a special election for state treasurer in 2024, which he subsequently won. Thurston's educational background includes a degree in Biblical Studies from Agape College and a high school diploma from Sheridan High School. His career reflects a strong commitment to public service and his community in Arkansas.