The daughter of the late Republican Sen. Gary Stubblefield of Branch is criticizing Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders for scheduling a special election to fill her father’s seat next June, leaving Franklin County without representation during the 2026 fiscal session.
Amber Sullivan spoke at a press conference Tuesday, saying her efforts to get answers about the timing “have gone nowhere.” She urged voters to contact the governor and state legislators.
Stubblefield died Sept. 2, and Sanders declared the seat vacant on Sept. 15. Arkansas law requires a special election within 150 days, but the governor set the primary for March 31 and the general election for June 9, after the fiscal session ends in May.
Sullivan said District 26 voters need a voice on key issues, including health care, education, and the Franklin County prison project. Sen. Bryan King called the timing “voter theft,” saying one vote in the Senate can impact millions.
Sanders’ office says the schedule saves taxpayer dollars and ensures a fair election, while the Secretary of State’s office notes federal and state timelines make June the earliest practical date for the general election.
Appropriations bills, including $750 million for the Franklin County prison, require a two-thirds Senate majority, leaving the district unrepresented during critical budget debates.
For the original reporting from Arkansas Advocate, click here.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI