By Andrew DeMillo | Editor-in-Chief
Good morning, Advocate readers! Today is the deadline to register to vote in the November election in Arkansas. Read our Arkansas Explained on the voter registration process for more info.
Speaking of the election, a mix of local and national issues were on the minds of voters at a recent Springdale event. And our editor’s commentary this week looks at how debates are being treated as an afterthought in today’s campaigns. You can find more Arkansas government and politics news on the Advocate site here.
And be sure to check out the Advocate’s 2026 Voter Guide for information on the top statewide, federal and legislative races, as well as the four proposed ballot measures.
Guests attend the Chickin, Peelin’ & Politickin’ networking event at Springdale’s Shiloh Square on Oct. 1, 2026. (Photo by Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
By Antoinette Grajeda
Rain and overcast skies didn’t dampen the mood at the annual Chickin, Peelin’ & Politickin’ event Thursday at Springdale’s Shiloh Square as residents, business owners and elected officials networked over plates of fried chicken and shrimp.
The Arkansas PBS debate between candidates for the United States Senate was held on Oct. 21, 2022 at the Donald W. Reynolds Performance Hall, on the University of Central Arkansas campus in Conway. The participants, from left, are: Libertarian candidate Kenneth Cates, Democratic candidate Natalie James, and Republican incumbent John Boozman. (Photo by John Sykes/Arkansas Advocate)
COMMENTARY
By Andrew DeMillo
Once considered a rite of passage for candidates, Arkansas debates were among the few unscripted moments of drama on the campaign trail.
President Donald Trump gestures as he exits the stage during a midterm election rally at the Choctaw Event Center on Oct. 1, 2026, in Durant, Oklahoma. (Photo by Jessica Tobias/For Oklahoma Voice)
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
By Stateline
Election administrators often plan for natural disasters, bomb threats and other possible problems, but this year many are also thinking about possible disruptions driven by the federal government.
MORE NEWS
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