Governor Sanders Revises Special Election Timeline for Senate District 26 Amid Public Outcry

On September 26, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced that the special election to fill the late Senator Gary Stubblefield's seat in District 26 would be postponed until November 2026, more than a year after his passing on September 2, 2025.

 

The decision to leave the seat vacant for such an extended period ignited immediate criticism from various political factions and community members.

 

The Democratic Party of Arkansas condemned the move, labeling it a "middle finger to every voter" in the district.

 

Republican candidates vying for the seat also expressed their dissatisfaction, deeming the delay unacceptable.

 

In response to the mounting backlash, Governor Sanders revised the election timeline later that same day.

 

While the special primary remains scheduled for March 3, 2026, the general election has been moved up to June 9, 2026.

 

Governor Sanders explained that the initial decision aimed to save costs and streamline the electoral process.

 

However, after receiving feedback from the community and confirming with election officials that an earlier date was feasible, she decided to expedite the election to ensure prompt representation for the River Valley.

 

Secretary of State Cole Jester acknowledged that the adjusted timeline might pose additional challenges for county election officials but affirmed support for the change to expedite the election process.

 

Following the governor's initial proclamation, the Democratic Party of Arkansas released a statement condemning the delay.

 

Chairman Ret. Army Col. Marcus Jones described the move as "disgraceful" and an unprecedented betrayal of the 85,000 residents in Senate District 26.

 

He accused Governor Sanders of silencing the voices of constituents for political gain and embracing taxation without representation.

 

Republican candidates also voiced their concerns.

 

Brad Simon of Paris criticized the 427-day vacancy as "unconscionable, unacceptable, and unconstitutional," emphasizing his readiness to serve the district immediately.

 

Ted Tritt highlighted the necessity for the district to have a voice in decisions affecting families, jobs, and the future, stating that going through a fiscal session without full representation is simply unacceptable.

 

After the governor's revised timeline was announced, candidates continued to express their positions.

 

Tritt acknowledged the improvement but maintained that the district would still face over 250 days without representation, which he deemed well beyond what the law calls for and far beyond what families deserve.

 

As of September 26, no Democratic candidates had announced a bid for the seat.

 

However, Chairman Jones indicated that the party is in discussions with several potential candidates interested in running.

 

The evolving situation underscores the community's demand for timely and effective representation in the Arkansas State Senate.