Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas officials have announced a special election to fill the vacant District 70 seat in the State House of Representatives following the resignation of State Rep. Carlton Wing on September 30, 2025. The announcement came from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who outlined the timeline and election procedures to ensure the seat is filled promptly.
Governor Sanders confirmed that the special election will take place on June 9, 2026, providing residents of District 70 the opportunity to select a new representative for the Arkansas General Assembly. Ahead of the special election, a special primary election for all eligible political parties is scheduled for March 3, 2026, with a special primary runoff, if necessary, on March 31, 2026.
The governor also detailed the candidacy filing process, noting that individuals wishing to run as party candidates must submit their filings with the Secretary of State’s Office between 12:00 noon on November 3, 2025, and 12:00 noon on November 12, 2025. “Certificates of nomination shall be issued by parties no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, April 10, 2026, and candidates shall file the certificates of nomination by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026,” Gov. Sanders stated.
Independent candidates seeking to participate in the special election must also adhere to strict filing deadlines. Notices of candidacy, affidavits of eligibility, political practices pledges, and supporting petitions must be submitted to the Office of the Secretary of State in Little Rock no later than 12:00 noon on April 13, 2026. Petition circulation for independent candidates will begin on January 28, 2026, and continue until the filing deadline. The number of signatures required will be proportionally reduced under Arkansas law.
Once the elections are completed, the results will undergo official certification. County boards of election commissioners are expected to certify the results of the special primary election by April 10, 2026, and the results of the special election by June 19, 2026. These steps are part of the state’s structured process to ensure transparency, fairness, and compliance with election laws.
Governor Sanders emphasized the importance of maintaining representation for District 70 residents. The special election ensures that constituents continue to have a voice in the Arkansas General Assembly, despite the unexpected vacancy left by Representative Wing’s resignation.
The announcement also serves as a reminder for potential candidates and the public to prepare for the upcoming election cycle. With the filing period beginning in early November and the election set for the following June, political parties, independent candidates, and voters have ample time to organize and engage in the democratic process.
As Arkansas moves forward with preparations, residents of District 70 can expect additional information from election officials, including voter registration guidance and election day procedures, ensuring a smooth and well-managed special election in 2026.
