Arkansas State Senator Breanne Davis Seeks Top Leadership Role

Republican Whip announces bid for Senate President Pro Tempore position.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:37pm

Breanne Davis, the current Republican Whip in the Arkansas State Senate, has announced her intention to seek election as the Senate President Pro Tempore for the 2027-2029 legislative session. The position is the highest-ranking leadership role in the state's upper chamber.

Why it matters

Davis' bid for the powerful Senate President Pro Tempore role signals her ambition to shape the legislative agenda in Arkansas during a pivotal period. The position holds significant influence over the flow of bills, committee assignments, and the overall direction of the state Senate.

The details

As the current Republican Whip, Davis is responsible for mobilizing votes and maintaining party discipline within the Senate GOP caucus. Her announcement to seek the top leadership post comes as the current President Pro Tempore, Jim Hendren, is term-limited and will be stepping down.

  • Davis confirmed her intention to run for the position on April 1, 2026.

The players

Breanne Davis

A Republican state senator representing Russellville, Arkansas, and the current Republican Whip in the state Senate.

Jim Hendren

The current Arkansas State Senate President Pro Tempore, who is term-limited and will be stepping down.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Arkansas State Senate President Pro Tempore. As a proven leader within our caucus, I look forward to the opportunity to guide the Senate's legislative priorities and ensure our state continues moving in a positive direction.”

— Breanne Davis, Arkansas State Senator

What’s next

The Arkansas State Senate will hold elections for the President Pro Tempore position in early 2027, prior to the start of the next legislative session.

The takeaway

Davis' bid for the Senate's top leadership role underscores the growing influence of women in Arkansas politics and the Republican Party's efforts to cultivate the next generation of state-level leaders.