The Democratic Party of Arkansas executive committee voted unanimously to hold a primary election for the House District 70 special election. The seat has been vacated by Rep. Carlton Wing, R-North Little Rock, who was selected to lead Arkansas PBS.
Gov. Sarah Sanders has asked both political parties for a decision on whether or not to hold a primary or seek nominations for a convention. With Democrats choosing a primary, both parties will have to hold a primary. Sanders is empowered by law to set the election dates.
“District 70 was the most closely contested State House race across Arkansas during the 2024 election, with our Democratic candidate falling short by just 286 votes. Given that Democrats have overperformed by 18% in special elections since Trump took office, we feel confident that we can deliver another seat for Democrats in our State House,” said Marcus Jones, DPA chairman.
“We’re looking forward to letting voters in House District 70 decide in both the primary and the general election. And to Gov. Sanders, let’s make sure that we schedule the general election within 150 days this time,” Jones added, in reference to a controversy surrounding the Senate District 26 special election to replace the late Sen. Gary Stubblefield, R-Branch.
Jones said there are two Democratic candidates who have expressed interest in the seat: Alex Holladay and Cordelia Smith-Johnson.
Bo Renshaw is the only announced Republican candidate.
House District 70 covers northern Pulaski County, including North Little Rock and Sherwood.