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Flippin Today
By the People, for the People
Election Day Arrives in North Central Arkansas
Voters to decide county leadership, local ballot issues, and statewide contests on Tuesday
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Voters across North Central Arkansas will head to the polls on Tuesday, March 5, 2026 for the Preferential Primary and Nonpartisan General Election. Several key county leadership races, local ballot measures, and statewide contests will be decided, including contests for county sheriff, judge, and quorum court positions in Baxter, Marion, Fulton, Boone, and Stone Counties. KTLO, Classic Hits, and The Boot News will provide live election night coverage starting at 7:30 pm when polls close, with real-time results posted at KTLO.com/ElectionCentral.
Why it matters
This election represents a generational change in leadership for several counties in North Central Arkansas, with new sheriffs, judges, and other officials set to be elected. The results will shape the direction of local government and policies on issues like infrastructure, public safety, and community development. Statewide races for U.S. Senate, Governor, and the Arkansas Supreme Court will also be decided, impacting the political landscape at the state level.
The details
In Baxter County, three candidates are vying to replace the retiring Sheriff John Montgomery, who has held the position for 22 years. The county judge race features incumbent Kevin Litty against challenger Eric Payne. Several Quorum Court district seats are also up for grabs. Marion County voters will weigh in on two sales tax proposals for a new community center, while also choosing a new county treasurer. Fulton County has a three-way race for sheriff, as well as a contest for county judge. Boone County features five candidates for county judge, along with sheriff and coroner races. Stone County voters will decide sheriff and county judge positions, as well as proposals that could reestablish two school districts.
- Polls open at 7:30 am and close at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, March 5, 2026.
- A runoff election, if needed, will be held on March 31, 2026.
The players
John Montgomery
The retiring Baxter County Sheriff who has held the position for 22 years.
Kevin Litty
The incumbent Baxter County Judge seeking a second term.
Eric Payne
The Baxter County Justice of the Peace challenging incumbent Judge Kevin Litty.
Cyndi Mueller
A candidate for Marion County Treasurer.
Amber Knowles
A candidate for Marion County Treasurer.
What they’re saying
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This election represents a pivotal moment for North Central Arkansas, with voters set to choose new leaders who will shape the future of their communities on key issues like infrastructure, public safety, and economic development. The results will have lasting impacts on the region.
