Four Candidates Vie for Arkansas' 2nd Congressional District Seat

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Four candidates are competing to represent central Arkansas' 2nd Congressional District, a seat that has been held by Republicans for over a decade but is considered a potential Democratic pickup due to the district's diversity and younger population. Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. French Hill faces a primary challenge from former state legislative candidate Chase McDowell, while the Democratic side features first-time candidate Zack Huffman and 2022 gubernatorial nominee Chris Jones.

Why it matters

The 2nd Congressional District race is seen as a key battleground, with Democrats viewing it as one of their best opportunities to flip a House seat in Arkansas, which has been solidly Republican at the federal level for nearly a decade. The outcome could impact the balance of power in Congress.

The details

The four candidates all live in Little Rock, the population center of the eight-county 2nd District. Republicans have held all four of Arkansas' U.S. House seats since 2013, but Democrats believe the 2nd District's diversity and younger demographics give them a chance to win. However, redistricting in 2021 shifted many predominantly Black voters out of the district. Key issues in the race include the cost of living, dissatisfaction with national leadership, education, health care, and support for agriculture and rural economic stability.

• The primary election will be held in 2026 to determine the party nominees.
• The general election for the 2nd Congressional District seat will take place later in 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The primary election will be held in 2026 to determine the party nominees, and the general election for the 2nd Congressional District seat will take place later that year.