91st Arkansas General Assembly

The Ninety-First Arkansas General Assembly was the state's legislative body in 2017 and 2018, with both the Senate and House of Representatives controlled by Republicans. The Senate had 23 Republicans, 11 Democrats, and one vacant seat until April. The House included 69 Republicans, 30 Democrats, and one independent member. The Regular Session began on January 9, 2017, and adjourned sine die on May 1, 2017, immediately followed by the First Extraordinary Session. The assembly was marked by several scandals and indictments involving current and former legislators. Notably, former legislators Hank Wilkins IV, Jon Woods, and Micah Neal pleaded guilty to a fraud and kickback scheme related to Arkansas's General Improvement Fund. Their pleas suggested potential charges for sitting members in the 91st Assembly. Representative Mickey Gates faced national attention after failing to pay taxes for 15 years but did not resign. Vacancies occurred due to various reasons, including deaths, resignations, and new appointments. For instance, Senator Greg Standridge died in November 2017 and was replaced by Breanne Davis in May 2018 via special election. Other vacancies included Eddie Joe Williams, David Branscum, and Frank Glidewell, all of whom were replaced through special elections. Significant leadership changes also occurred, such as Speaker Jeremy Gillam's resignation in June 2018 to take a new position, leaving his seat vacant. Senator Jake Files resigned in February 2018 after a federal guilty plea, and Senator Jeremy Hutchinson resigned in August 2018 following a grand jury indictment. Overall, the 91st General Assembly was characterized by political ...