Arkansas Voters to Decide Key Races Starting Tuesday

Senate, Governor, and Secretary of State among high-profile contests on the ballot

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Voters in Arkansas will head to the polls starting Tuesday to decide several key state and regional races, including the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Tom Cotton, the Governor's race, and the Secretary of State election. Democrats are mounting challenges to Cotton and Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, while the Secretary of State race features a crowded Republican primary.

Why it matters

The upcoming March 3rd Preferential Primary will determine the nominees for several high-profile statewide offices in Arkansas, setting the stage for the general election in November. The Senate race in particular is expected to be closely watched, as Democrats see it as a potential pickup opportunity.

The details

In the U.S. Senate race, incumbent Republican Tom Cotton faces primary challengers Micah Ashby and Jeb Little, while Democrats Hallie Shoffner and Ethan Dunbar are competing for their party's nomination. For Governor, Republican incumbent Sarah Huckabee Sanders is running for reelection, while Democrats Fred Love and Supha Xayprasith-Mays are vying for their party's nomination. The Secretary of State race features a crowded Republican primary between state Senator Kim Hammer, Miller County Judge Cathy Hardin Harrison, and veteran Bryan Norris.

  • Early voting begins on Tuesday, March 3rd.
  • The Preferential Primary election will be held on Tuesday, March 3rd.

The players

Tom Cotton

Incumbent U.S. Senator, seeking reelection as a Republican.

Hallie Shoffner

Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, former farmer.

Ethan Dunbar

Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, Lewisville Mayor and Army veteran.

Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Incumbent Republican Governor, seeking reelection.

Fred Love

Democratic candidate for Governor, State Senator from Little Rock.

Supha Xayprasith-Mays

Democratic candidate for Governor, business owner and former Walmart executive.

Cole Jester

Incumbent Secretary of State, appointed in 2024 and not eligible to run for a full term.

Kim Hammer

Republican candidate for Secretary of State, state Senator.

Cathy Hardin Harrison

Republican candidate for Secretary of State, Miller County Judge.

Bryan Norris

Republican candidate for Secretary of State, veteran.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“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 case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.