3 Little Rock House Democrats on track to keep their seats
Two Democratic state representatives from Little Rock overcame primary challengers on Tuesday, while a third appeared to narrowly avoid a runoff based on unofficial returns early Wednesday.
Democrat Rep. Fred Allen has represented District 77 in west Little Rock since 2017 and defeated Grant Smith, securing a fifth term with no Republican challenger. The Associated Press called the race at 8:58 p.m.
With 99% of the votes counted, the unofficial results were:
- Fred Allen — 2,782 (86.3%)
- Grant Smith — 442 (13.7%)
Ben Sims, who lives in the John Barrow neighborhood of Allen’s district, said Allen won his support by reaching out to voters in person.
“He’s a strong leader and he’s working for the people,” Sims said. “…He took his time to come and knock on doors and just meet people, even at the church I go to.”
Three-term state Rep. Denise Jones Ennett of District 80, which includes the south and east sides of Little Rock, defeated R. Roosevelte Williams III.
With 99% of the votes counted, the unofficial results were:
- Ennett — 1,940 (65.1%)
- Williams — 1,041 (34.9%)
Meanwhile, Rep. Joy Springer’s race had not been called as of midnight Tuesday. Voting data from the Secretary of State showed Springer receiving 992 votes compared to Ryan Davis’ 825 and Kia Sprinkle Wilson’s 129. If the results are finalized, Springer will win with 51% of the vote and avoid a runoff.
Springer was first elected in a special election in March 2020 and has since won two more House terms. Her district includes West Markham, Geyer Springs and the Central High Historic District.
Katherene Dickey of the West Markham neighborhood said she voted for Springer because of her legislative experience and because she supports diversity in elected positions.
No Republicans are running in any of the three House districts.
