Little Rock, Arkansas – Pulaski County officials are gearing up for a special primary election in State Representative District 70, with early voting set to begin on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. The election comes after the seat has been vacant for more than 60 days, prompting heightened attention and preparations from county election officials.
On Monday morning, the usually quiet Pulaski County election office was buzzing with activity as staff finalized preparations for early voting sites. Election Coordinator Amanda Dickens explained the significance of the special primary. “What’s starting tomorrow is a special election, but it’s a special primary election for House District 70,” Dickens said. “Whoever wins this special primary will face the republican candidate who filed for the same race, and they will decide who’s going to represent them on March 3 for the rest of the year. Those same candidates will also be running in the regular primary election on March 3, and then whoever wins that primary election will face the same Republican candidate in November to decide who’s going to have that office for the next two years.”
The special primary features three Democratic candidates vying for the opportunity to advance to the general election, where they will face Republican Bo Renshaw. Voters from North Little Rock and Sherwood will have the chance to cast their ballots during early voting, which will continue through the designated period leading up to Election Day.
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Preparations for the election have been extensive. Setup began on Monday at both early voting locations in Sherwood and at the Pulaski County Election Office. Dickens emphasized that planning for this primary had been ongoing for months, but the announcement of the special election added another layer of complexity. “We’ve been planning for the primary for the last few months. And then, of course, a special election got called, which, you know, just kind of got thrown into the mix of things,” she said.
Over 800 poll workers have been trained to manage polling locations throughout the county, ensuring voters receive assistance and guidance. Officials anticipate a busy election season and are emphasizing voter preparedness. Dickens encouraged residents to check their registration information ahead of voting. “Make sure that your registration is up to date and current. [That] it has your current address. Get that updated if you need to, and do it now. If you’re planning to vote early tomorrow [on Tuesday], you can update that at the polling site,” she said. “If you’re going down in person to pick up your ballot, just stop by over here and early vote. You know, it makes it a lot easier.”
The special primary election in District 70 represents an important opportunity for local residents to have their voices heard, particularly as the winner will not only serve out the remainder of the current term but will also have a chance to secure the seat for the full term in the upcoming regular election. Officials are urging voters to participate, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and ensuring that every vote counts in shaping the district’s representation.
For voters in North Little Rock and Sherwood, the upcoming days offer a chance to weigh in on who will lead them in the state legislature. With well-prepared polling sites, trained staff, and clear instructions for voter registration, Pulaski County is aiming to ensure a smooth and efficient process as residents head to the polls to make their voices heard.
The early voting period is expected to provide a convenient opportunity for residents to participate in the special primary, setting the stage for the continuation of a busy election season in Pulaski County and beyond.
