Arkansas House Democrats Elect Leadership Team!

LITTLE ROCK - Arkansas House Democrats elected their leadership team for the 96th General Assembly on Wednesday, reelecting Rep. Andrew Collins of Little Rock as caucus leader and filling out a full slate of officers.

Rep. Nicole Clowney of Fayetteville was elected minority whip, succeeding Rep. Denise Garner of Fayetteville, who is running for state Senate. Rep. David Whitaker of Fayetteville was reelected secretary, and Rep. Ken Ferguson of Pine Bluff was reelected treasurer. All elections were uncontested.

Collins, first elected in 2018, has served as minority leader during the 95th General Assembly. He leads a 20-member Democratic caucus in the 100-seat chamber.

"It's an honor to lead House Democrats as we fight against extreme Republican overreach while pushing forward on our own legislation and serving constituents," Collins said. "I look forward to electing more Democrats to the House so we can deliver better results for the people of Arkansas."

Clowney, stepping into the whip role, said the caucus is positioned for growth heading into 2026.

"I've never been more excited about the House Democratic Caucus than right now," Clowney said. "Arkansans are ready for something better than unchecked Republican governance that isn't delivering for them. Democrats are winning House seats with every election, and our newest members are bringing an incredible amount of experience, expertise, and heart to the Capitol. House Democrats are working hard and smart for all Arkansans and I'm thrilled to step into this new leadership role."

Whitaker, returning as secretary, said he is grateful to continue in the role.

"I am humbled and honored to continue my service to the House Democratic Caucus, the House, and the people of Arkansas," Whitaker said.

DPA Chair Col. Marcus Jones (Ret.) congratulated the leadership team on behalf of the state party.

"The Democratic Party of Arkansas salutes our newly elected legislative leaders," Jones said. "While the extreme GOP supermajority is serving Gov. Sarah Sanders and their campaign donors, our Democratic House Caucus will continue to fight for working families. Our priorities remain bringing down costs for working families, making healthcare more affordable and accessible, and ensuring our public funds stay in public schools with public oversight. The House Democratic leadership team is ready to push forward on behalf of Arkansans, and they won't stop fighting for a better, brighter future for the Natural State."