Born-and-raised Arkansan Micah Ashby has announced her candidacy for the United States Senate, entering the 2026 Republican primary and challenging incumbent Sen. Tom Cotton.
In her campaign announcement, Ashby said she is running to give Arkansans a stronger voice in Washington and to refocus federal leadership on the needs of families across the state.
“Arkansas families are hurting. Washington is broken, and career politicians like Tom Cotton have forgotten who they work for,” Ashby said. “Arkansas deserves a senator who is present, who listens, and who works for the people—not Washington insiders.”
Ashby highlighted her Arkansas roots and community involvement, pointing to her work helping establish food pantries and advocating for at-risk teens as part of her record of service.
Her campaign platform includes protecting family farms and small businesses, improving school safety, defending the Second Amendment, supporting religious liberty, delivering tax relief, cutting federal spending, and ensuring Arkansas has a strong voice in Washington.
Ashby also criticized Cotton’s record, questioning his presence on issues affecting Arkansas residents. She said the people of the state should come before political ambition in Washington.
According to her campaign, Ashby is running a grassroots, people-powered effort and is seeking volunteers, endorsements, and support from Arkansans statewide.
“I am humbled and honored to step into this race,” Ashby said. “Together, we can put Arkansas families first again.”
