By Andrew DeMillo | Editor-in-Chief
Good morning, Advocate readers!
Arkansas candidates face off in a series of debates on Arkansas TV this week. Though they’re unlikely to generate a “there you go again” or “you’re no Jack Kennedy” moment, they could still shake up some races. Today we take a look at recent memorable Arkansas debates, and stay tuned for our coverage of this week’s debates. We also continue our previews of the midterm election with northwest Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District.
And the editor’s commentary this week looks at what two of the bizarrest episodes of this year’s election say about the impact President Donald Trump and his base are having. You can find more Arkansas government and politics news on the Advocate site here.
Republican U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, Democrat Robb Ryerse and Libertarian Bobby Wilson are seeking to represent Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District in the 2026 general election. (Photos courtesy of the Arkansas secretary of state’s office and Bobby Wilson)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
By Antoinette Grajeda
Whoever is elected in November to represent Arkansas’ 3rd Congressional District will have plenty of issues to address in Washington, including the Iran war, immigration and the nation’s budget.
(Photo by John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
By Andrew DeMillo
Debates may not necessarily win an election, but they can provide memorable exchanges and fodder for political attacks.
Thousands of Nebraskans gather in Grand Island, Nebraska, on Monday, Oct. 5, 2026, at the Nebraska State Fairgrounds for a midterms rally featuring President Donald Trump. (Photo by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)
COMMENTARY
By Andrew DeMillo
The two most bizarre episodes of Arkansas’ midterm election campaign are a stark reminder of how much Trump and his allies have upended state politics. They also highlight how Trump and his base have gone from an asset to a headache for Arkansas Republicans.
MORE NEWS
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