Three Republican contenders are aiming to become Arkansas’s next Secretary of State: Senator Kim Hammer of Benton, Miller County Judge Cathy Hardin Harrison, and Bryan Norris. In this opinion piece, each candidate is introduced to demonstrate the variety of experiences driving their bids.
Steve Brawner: Hammer vs. Harrison vs. Norris for SOS
Key Takeaways:
- Three Republicans are running for Arkansas Secretary of State.
- The candidates include Sen. Kim Hammer (R-Benton), Judge Cathy Hardin Harrison, and Bryan Norris.
- The piece is presented as an opinion column focusing on local politics.
- It was published in The Daily Citizen on January 22, 2026.
- The article provides a brief overview of each candidate’s background.
The Race for Arkansas Secretary of State
The competition for Arkansas’s Secretary of State has drawn attention throughout the state as voters look to the future of this key executive position. Originally covered in an opinion piece, the current field features three Republican figures vying for the role.
Meet the Candidates
Sen. Kim Hammer (R-Benton), Miller County Judge Cathy Hardin Harrison, and Bryan Norris are the Republican hopefuls seeking the office. Hammer has served as a state senator representing Benton, while Harrison holds judicial responsibilities in Miller County. Little is shared publicly about Norris beyond his candidacy, but all three are introduced as political voices determined to shape the state’s electoral processes in the years ahead.
Local Interest and Impact
While the article is offered as an opinion piece, it underscores how closely local communities are watching this race. In a state where the Secretary of State oversees elections and other administrative tasks, voters are eager to know each candidate’s experience and agenda. According to the original coverage, these three Republicans are prepared to highlight their credentials as Arkansas’s next chief election official.