Jessie McGruder
Jessie McGruder (Democratic) is a 2026 general election candidate for the Arkansas State Senate in District 9, covering Crittenden, Lee, Phillips and 1 other counties. Jessie McGruder qualified with the Arkansas Secretary of State to appear on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for Senate District 9.
Campaign site
“I was raised in the Delta and have lived in Crittenden County with my family for 9 years. As a lifelong Arkansan, I believe our community deserves a leader who will fight for everyone - not just some.”
(Campaign website) “I currently represent District 35 in the Arkansas House. I'm also a public school teacher and football coach, and I previously served our community as a police officer. All that people-focused work has opened my eyes to the issues that our community faces, and I'm eager to continue leveling the playing field for all Arkansans. I'm the candidate for State Senate who will put your family first.”
(Campaign website) “Hello, I am Rep. Jessie McGruder, son of Julious and Laverne McGruder and a lifelong Arkansan. My parents taught me about God, the importance of education, and most of all the importance of family.”
(Campaign website)Kenny Phillips
Kenny Phillips (Republican) is a 2026 general election candidate for the Arkansas State Senate in District 9, covering Crittenden, Lee, Phillips and 1 other counties. Kenny Phillips qualified with the Arkansas Secretary of State to appear on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for Senate District 9.
“I just want to commend everyone that made this happen as fast as they did,”
(Arkansas Advocate)