Rebecca Davis

AFA Journal staff writer

January 2014 – Political activism comes natural for Arkansas native Jack Fortner. His genuine personality and down-to-earth nature make him both likeable and approachable. But his background in church volunteerism fueled by his moral conviction is what pushed this believer into public service.

It all began 14 years ago in northern California when Fortner agreed to be chairman of his local water district. Stepping into county politics opened his eyes to other needs in the area, specifically secular education. 

“At this time, our three grandchildren were attending California public schools,” Fortner’s wife, Pamela, told AFA Journal. “The liberal trend was upsetting to him, and he felt the need to become personally involved.”

Become involved 
Fortner ran for the local school board and was elected. It was uncharacteristic for a man who comes from a lineage of mostly preachers, farmers and basic hardworking individuals. But he saw the morals in his community deteriorating, and he knew he had to do something.

“For so many years, we as Christians have believed that politics and government were not something that we should be involved in,” Fortner explained. “Because of that attitude, we have allowed vocal minorities to change the morals of our country through our government. We are close to having immorality and sin become the law of the land.

“[But] individuals can make a difference in our government,” he added. 

Fortner firmly believes that real change in government starts with individuals becoming involved on a local level. His life is proof. 

While serving on the school board, Fortner influenced the direction of the school district as well as the district’s choice of curriculum and books. His influence didn’t come by condemning his fellow board members who held liberal views or quoting Scripture to them at each meeting. Rather he built sincere relationships with them, and over time won their respect. He laughed with them, listened to them and befriended them. He was flexible when it came to voting on non-moral issues, and as a result, his voice was heard on what he considered to be the most important issues.

Make an impact 
“My success is not because I am an extraordinary person, but simply because I became involved, listened to others, became their friend and gained their respect,” Fortner said. 

“The years that Jack spent on the school board taught him that, even in a liberal environment, Christians can have a real impact,” his wife added. 

So when Fortner and his wife decided to retire to his home state of Arkansas seven years ago, he continued impacting the community around him through his involvement in local government. He was asked to serve on the Marion County Airport Board and then appointed to the county planning commission. He also ran successfully for justice of the peace and now sits on the Marion County Quorum Court. By serving on the court, Fortner is able to influence the county’s stance on issues like holiday celebrations and funding.

But the decisions are not always made in his favor. He doesn’t see all the changes that he desires. Still, he presses on because the changes that he does accomplish are worth his every effort.

“Jack has always felt that he, as a Christian, should be an example,” Pamela said, “and always try to change things for the better. …” 

That is exactly what he has done and continues to do.