Four candidates are seeking to represent central Arkansas’ 2nd Congressional District, a seat held by Republicans for more than a decade that Democrats have repeatedly tried to flip.
Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. French Hill faces a primary challenge from former state legislative candidate Chase McDowell. On the Democratic side, first-time candidate Zack Huffman is running against 2022 gubernatorial nominee Chris Jones. All four candidates live in Little Rock, the population center of the eight-county district.
Republicans have held all four of Arkansas’ U.S. House seats since 2013. Democrats consider the 2nd District one of their best opportunities because of its diversity and younger population, though redistricting in 2021 shifted many predominantly Black voters out of the district.
The state’s other three Republican congressmen do not face primary challengers, but each will have a Democratic opponent in the November general election.
The only other contested Democratic primary is in the 4th Congressional District, where Steve O’Donnell faces James Russell. The winner will challenge Republican U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman.
Candidates across both districts say voters frequently mention rising costs of living and dissatisfaction with national leadership as key concerns.
Education has also emerged as a major issue. Huffman and Jones, both former teachers, emphasized the importance of school funding and student well-being, while McDowell said he supports public education but opposes what he described as political topics in classrooms. Russell said improving education would help attract businesses and strengthen the workforce.
Health care is another central topic. Jones said expanding postpartum Medicaid coverage and reducing insurance costs should be priorities, while Russell supports a single-payer system. O’Donnell has called for universal health care and lower prescription drug prices. McDowell, drawing on his background in pharmaceutical policy, said he favors extending insurance subsidies and placing limits on drug and premium costs.
Agriculture and rural economic stability also surfaced as concerns, with some candidates advocating additional support for farmers facing rising expenses and market pressures.
Voters in the district will decide party nominees in the primary before the general election later this year determines who will represent Arkansas’ 2nd Congressional District in Congress.
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