Little Rock, Arkansas – Cole Jester, the current Arkansas Secretary of State, has formally entered the race for Commissioner of State Lands, announcing his campaign on Wednesday through a public statement on social media.
In a Facebook post, Jester shared his enthusiasm about the decision, writing, “After prayerful consideration, I am excited to announce my campaign for Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands. We will further Arkansas’s energy economy, investigate foreign influence, and keep our tax dollars where they belong.” His statement suggests a strong focus on economic development, transparency, and conservative fiscal principles.
Jester’s political experience includes his recent appointment as Secretary of State by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, a role he assumed on January 1, 2025. Since then, he has focused on issues related to election security and has advocated for tightening rules on petitions, aligning with broader efforts by the state’s leadership to ensure integrity in civic processes.
Prior to becoming Secretary of State, Jester served as Deputy Chief Legal Counsel to Governor Sanders. His legal background also includes time with the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, giving him federal-level experience in law and governance.
Born and raised in Benton, Arkansas, Jester is an alumnus of Ouachita Baptist University, where he earned a degree in Christian Studies and political science. His academic and professional background reflects a combination of faith-based values and policy expertise that has become a hallmark of his public service.
The current Arkansas Commissioner of State Lands is Tommy Land, who has held the office since being sworn in back in 2019. As the race unfolds, Jester is expected to campaign on a platform that promotes responsible land management, protection of state resources, and economic strategies that benefit Arkansas communities.
Jester has not yet announced any public campaign events or endorsements, but his early entry into the race suggests that he is preparing for a robust campaign season. Voters will be watching closely as he outlines more details about his plans and priorities for the office.
As the election cycle moves forward, Jester’s candidacy is likely to draw attention not just for his current political position but for the broader themes he intends to highlight — including energy policy, foreign interests, and the stewardship of state lands.
