Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced a special election to fill the vacancy in the office of State Representative for District 70 following the resignation of Representative Carlton Wing on September 30, 2025. Wing’s departure from the Arkansas General Assembly created an immediate need to elect a new representative to serve the constituents of District 70, prompting Sanders to set a clear timetable for the upcoming elections and related deadlines.
In a formal proclamation issued on October 10, 2025, Governor Sanders outlined the election schedule, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a smooth transition and adherence to Arkansas election law. “It is impracticable or unduly burdensome to hold the special primary election and special election within one hundred fifty days after the occurrence of the vacancy,” the proclamation notes, explaining the rationale for the set dates.
According to the announcement, the special election to fill the vacant seat will take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. In advance of that, a special primary election for all eligible political parties is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with a potential special primary runoff on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, if necessary. These elections will determine who will represent the district in the Arkansas General Assembly for the remainder of the term.
The governor’s proclamation also details the timeline for candidate filings. Party candidates may submit their paperwork to the Secretary of State’s Office beginning at 12:00 noon on Monday, November 3, 2025, through 12:00 noon on Wednesday, November 12, 2025. Certificates of nomination for party candidates must be issued no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, April 10, 2026, with candidates required to file these certificates by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026.
Independent candidates also have a clearly defined process. Notices of candidacy, political practices pledges, affidavits of eligibility, and supporting petitions must be submitted to the Secretary of State’s Office in Little Rock no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, April 13, 2026. Petition circulation will be allowed from Wednesday, January 28, 2026, through the submission deadline, with signature requirements adjusted proportionately in accordance with Arkansas law.
Ballot positions will be determined ahead of the elections, with the drawing for the special primary election set to occur on or before Thursday, December 4, 2025, and the drawing for the special election no later than Thursday, April 16, 2026. County boards of election commissioners will certify the results of the special primary election by Friday, April 10, 2026, and the results of the special election by Friday, June 19, 2026.
Governor Sanders’ proclamation reiterates that all other election deadlines and requirements will follow existing Arkansas election laws, ensuring that the process remains transparent, fair, and accessible to all qualified candidates. The special election provides an opportunity for both party-affiliated and independent candidates to step forward and serve the citizens of District 70, maintaining effective representation in the state legislature.
The announcement underscores the state’s commitment to promptly filling legislative vacancies while allowing ample time for candidates and voters to prepare. With the scheduled elections and deadlines now officially established, District 70 residents can anticipate a structured and orderly process to elect their next state representative.
For constituents and interested parties, the governor’s office encourages monitoring updates from the Arkansas Secretary of State and local election authorities to ensure compliance with filing requirements and participation in the upcoming elections. The special election is a pivotal event for District 70, providing an opportunity to continue legislative work uninterrupted and maintain strong representation in the Arkansas General Assembly.
