Fort Smith, ARK – Republican Senator Kim Hammer of Benton has officially announced his intent to run for Arkansas Secretary of State in the 2026 election. Hammer’s decision comes after the recent election of John Thurston as the state treasurer, leaving the secretary’s position open.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders recently appointed Cole Jester to fill the vacancy in the interim. However, Jester is ineligible to run for the office due to his status as an appointee.
Hammer, who served in the Arkansas House of Representatives from 2010 to 2018, transitioned to the state Senate in 2018. In his announcement, he expressed a deep commitment to continuing his service to the people of Arkansas in a new capacity. “It has been one of my great joys in life to serve the people of Arkansas as a legislator,” Hammer said. “I would like to continue to serve Arkansans as their secretary of state. If elected, I will use my experience and work with both the legislative and administrative branches of government for the overall good and benefit of Arkansans.”
Throughout his political career, Hammer has garnered significant endorsements, including from the Arkansas State Chamber and the National Federation of Independent Businesses. These endorsements highlight his long-standing support within key sectors of the state’s business community.
As Hammer prepares to launch his campaign for secretary of state, his experience in both the state house and senate positions him as a seasoned contender for the role, one that will oversee elections and other vital governmental functions in Arkansas.