It may not feel like it yet, but it is election time in Arkansas once again.
Early voting in Arkansas kicked off Feb. 17 and will run through March 2, with the election taking place March 3. Those looking to stay informed can find locations, sample ballots and registration records on the Arkansas Secretary of State’s “Voter View” page.
No matter where in Arkansas you call home, it will be worth the time to parse the occasional alphabet soup that comes with policy votes, especially for 2026. The Arkansas legislature voted to place three proposed amendments to the state constitution on the ballot. Here is a quick look at what’s at stake:
- HJR1018 – Arkansas isn’t alone in this one, as 10 states are grappling with the issue of a “Citizens Only” voting amendment. If passed, the amendment would support adding language to the state constitution specifying that only U.S. citizens may vote in local or statewide elections.
- SJR11 – If passed, this will amend the Arkansas Constitution, Articles 2 & 5, to preserve the right to keep and bear arms.
- SJR15 – Tied to economic development across the state, this would authorize the General Assembly to create economic development districts that can issue bonds for the sake of financing improvements within the district.
If you’re looking to learn more, the full text of each ballot can be found here.
Most elections taking place across the state fall under the umbrella of “preferential primary” – that is, primary candidates are selected to represent their respective political parties for the Nov. 3 general election. However, special elections are also taking place in two Arkansas districts due to vacant legislative seats.
- House District 70 – Consisting of parts of Pulaski County, this election will fill the seat vacated when Rep. Carlton Wing (R) left to head the state’s public television station, Arkansas TV. Democrat Alex Holliday will be facing Republican Bo Renshaw, both hailing from North Little Rock.
- Senate District 26 – This district lies just east of Fort Smith and encompasses Clarksville, Paris, Ozark and other surrounding areas. The race is to replace Republican state Senator Gary Stubblefield, who passed away in September. Republican Brad Simon of Paris will face Independent Adam Watson of Branch.
Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is unopposed in the primary, while Democrats will choose between state Senator Fred Love of Little Rock and Bentonville businesswoman Supha Xayprasith-Mays.
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