In March, nine sitting legislators in Arkansas will face primary challenges, marking a significant moment in the state’s political landscape. Arkansas is unique in that incumbents appear on ballots with their titles, contributing to a remarkable 99% re-election rate for current officeholders. This year, while 57 legislators are running unopposed, primary contests are heating up, especially as endorsements from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders have become a double-edged sword.
Early voting begins on February 17, 2024, leading up to the preferential primary and non-partisan judicial elections on March 3, 2024. The following are insights into some of the noteworthy challenges that will unfold during this electoral season.
Senate District 10: A Contest of Controversy
In Senate District 10, incumbent Ron Caldwell faces a challenge from Trey “BoDirt” Bohannan. Caldwell, a three-term senator and chair of the Senate’s Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development Committee, found himself at odds with Sanders after he voted against a proposed $750 million prison funding package. Bohannan’s candidacy, which has garnered Sanders’ support despite questions about his residency in the district, represents a significant challenge to Caldwell’s long-held position.
House and Senate Battles
In District 21, Jeremy Wooldridge (R-Marmaduke) is up against Blake Johnson (R-Corning). Both candidates share similar political ideologies, making this race less about policy and more about age, with Wooldridge being 12 years younger than Johnson. Interestingly, Sanders has remained neutral in this contest, despite Johnson’s previous support of the prison appropriation.
The race in District 28 features Bob Ballinger Jr. challenging incumbent Bryan King (R-Green Forest). King has been a vocal opponent of several of Sanders’ initiatives, including the prison plan, and this has prompted the governor’s support for Ballinger, the son of a former senator. Despite some uncertainties surrounding his campaign, Ballinger’s challenge is notable given King’s popularity among constituents.
In District 39, Cody Smith is challenging Wayne Long (R-Bradford). Long has made headlines for his controversial legislative efforts, but Smith, a former county GOP chairman, aims to position himself as a more traditional conservative. This dynamic adds an intriguing layer to the race, particularly as Long’s past legislative actions have drawn scrutiny.
District 53 sees Matt Duffield (R-Russellville) face off against David Howell. Duffield, known for his past controversies, including an incident involving two women leaving his residence, still has backing from the Pope County Republican Party. Howell, who advocates for technology and data initiatives, hopes to capitalize on Duffield’s missteps.
In District 57, Cameron Cooper (R-Romance) faces a challenge from Andy Pennington. Cooper has gained recognition for sponsoring legislation that legalized raw milk sales. Pennington, a former school principal, aims to position himself as a more pro-business candidate, citing Cooper’s voting record with the Chamber of Commerce.
As the electoral landscape in Arkansas evolves, the challenge in District 59 pits Jim Wooten (R-Beebe) against Tony Ferguson. At 84 years old, Wooten has served multiple terms but is now facing calls for generational change, particularly regarding his opposition to the LEARNS Act, Sanders’ contentious education reform.
District 82 features a contest between Steve Brown and Tony Furman (R-Benton). Furman’s limited legislative success has drawn criticism, prompting Brown to enter the race. The challenge represents a call for renewed leadership within the district.
Finally, in District 88, Dolly Henley (R-Washington) is up against Lonny Goodwin. Henley, who previously defeated a Sanders-endorsed Republican, will need to navigate this challenge carefully, especially given Goodwin’s past electoral struggles.
With a significant number of incumbents running unopposed, the nine primary challenges present a unique opportunity for voters in Arkansas to influence the political climate. As early voting approaches, the outcomes of these races are sure to shape the future of the state’s legislative agenda. Voters are encouraged to check with their local county clerks for early voting locations and times.
