The Republican Party of Benton County has selected Kara Armas to temporarily hold the Arkansas House District 8 seat, which became vacant after the resignation of former state Rep. Austin McCollum earlier this month. McCollum stepped down on August 5, following his arrest on August 1 on allegations of domestic violence. He is facing accusations of aggravated assault, false imprisonment, and domestic battery.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is expected to announce a special election to formally fill the remainder of McCollum’s term in the state legislature. Meanwhile, Kara Armas’ nomination would provide temporary representation for the district.
Notably, Kara Armas’ husband, Brian Armas, is the Republican nominee for the House District 8 seat in the November special election. He currently faces no opposition in his bid. Brian Armas initially declared his candidacy for the seat in 2025, but recent developments have moved the election timeline forward.
Arkansas House District 8 covers areas in northern Benton County. The vacancy marks the end of McCollum’s tenure, which began when he was elected to the legislature in 2016. McCollum served multiple terms, including time as House majority leader.
Governor Sanders has not yet indicated a date for the special election.