Early Voting Underway in Arkansas for March 3 Primary & Election

Voters can cast ballots from Feb. 17 to March 2 for preferential primary and special elections

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Arkansans can early vote from Feb. 17 through March 2 for the March 3 election, which includes a preferential primary and special elections for Arkansas House District 70 and Senate District 26 after those seats were vacated. Voter turnout is expected to be around 20-25%, in line with prior midterm elections.

Why it matters

These elections will determine the candidates who will appear on the November general election ballot, shaping the direction of Arkansas communities. Early voting provides an opportunity for residents to avoid election-day lines and make their voices heard.

The details

The March 3 election includes a preferential primary, where party candidates are selected, as well as special elections for Arkansas House District 70 and Senate District 26 after those seats were vacated. In the Senate District 26 race, Republican Brad Simon is running against Independent Adam Watson. In the House District 70 race, Democrat Alex Holladay is running against Republican Bo Renshaw.

  • Early voting is underway from February 17 to March 2.
  • The March 3 election, including the preferential primary and special elections, will take place on that date.

The players

Arkansas Secretary of State Cole Jester

The chief elections official in Arkansas who is encouraging voters to make a plan to participate in these important elections.

Samantha Boyd

Spokesperson for the Arkansas Secretary of State's office, who provided turnout projections for the upcoming elections.

Brad Simon

Republican candidate for Arkansas Senate District 26.

Adam Watson

Independent candidate for Arkansas Senate District 26.

Alex Holladay

Democratic candidate for Arkansas House District 70.

Bo Renshaw

Republican candidate for Arkansas House District 70.

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What they’re saying

“Secretary of State Cole Jester encourages Arkansans to make a plan to vote, emphasizing that these elections determine the candidates who will appear on the November ballot.”

— Samantha Boyd, Spokesperson, Arkansas Secretary of State's office (fox16.com)

What’s next

The March 3 election, including the preferential primary and special elections, will take place on that date.

The takeaway

Early voting provides Arkansans an opportunity to participate in these important elections that will shape the direction of their communities, with turnout expected to be in line with prior midterm elections.