FRANKLIN COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A judge in Pulaski County has backed a Franklin County man’s challenge to Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ special election plan for District 26.

In an order filed Oct. 22, Judge ruled that Colt Shelby’s petition was granted, requiring the election to be scheduled “as soon as practical” and within 150 days of the vacancy — meaning it must take place before Feb. 23, 2026.

During an Oct. 15 hearing, election commissioners from Franklin and Logan counties testified they could hold the election alongside the state primaries on March 3, 2026, though it would be "difficult" for election officials.

The seat opened after Sen. Gary Stubblefield died on Sept. 2. District 26 includes parts of Franklin, Johnson, Logan and Sebastian counties.

Sanders originally set t

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