March 4, 2026

Aaron Spencer won the Republican primary for county sheriff in central Arkansas as he awaits his murder trial in a case that’s drawn national attention and shaped much of his campaign message.

Spencer got 53.5% of the vote, while longtime incumbent John Staley received 26.5% in the Lonoke County race, according to the Arkansas Secretary of State.

 

Aaron Spencer won the Republican primary for county sheriff in central Arkansas with 53.5% of the vote, defeating longtime incumbent John Staley and another challenger, despite awaiting a second-degree murder trial for fatally shooting a man accused of molesting his daughter. His victory in the heavily conservative Lonoke County, where Donald Trump garnered nearly 76% in 2024, positions him as the likely frontrunner in the November election. Spencer has admitted to the shooting but pleaded not guilty, with his trial delayed from January and a new date yet to be set, making his campaign and legal battle a focal point of local and national attention.

Leave a Reply