Author Archive

Our own Grant Hodges recently joined Roby Brock on Capitol View to break down the shifting political and legislative dynamics shaping Arkansas. While the spotlight often shines brightest on major statewide contests like the race for Arkansas Governor and the U.S. Senate, the upcoming November elections feature scores of competitive legislative races across the state. This conversation is particularly timely as the Arkansas legislature now faces a special election in Senate District 18 following the recent resignation of Senator Jonathan Dismang, a long-standing legislative leader.

As the state prepares for these critical elections, voter priorities are moving beyond traditional national talking points. While local concerns always matter, Arkansans are increasingly focused on high-impact, statewide developments. Data centers, for example, have rapidly emerged as a major point of discussion, with candidates across the political spectrum facing heavy questions from voters regarding their local and statewide impacts.

On the electoral front, all eyes are on highly competitive, unique legislative battles. In the state Senate, Republican Brandon Achor is a key figure to watch in a contest that could signal broader voter sentiments. Meanwhile, in Springdale’s House District 9, a highly competitive matchup has emerged between incumbent Democratic Representative Diana Gonzales Worthen and Republican challenger Matt Goff—a 30-year Army veteran, small business owner, and longtime Springdale resident. This particular seat is notorious for dramatic midterm-to-presidential turnout swings. Republicans won this seat in 2022 before flipping Democratic in 2024, making it a prime pick-up target for Republicans this cycle.

As it stands, Grant expects the best-case scenario for Arkansas Democrats is holding onto their current seats, while Republicans see clear opportunities to pick up key battlegrounds and expand their legislative supermajority, especially with a strong re-election predicted for incumbent Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders at the top of the ticket.

Watch the full interview on YouTube for a deep dive into the policies and races defining our state’s future.

LITTLE ROCK, AR — October 10, 2025 — JCD Consulting, a premier strategic political consulting, government relations, and public affairs firm, today announced the addition of Maggie Westerling as Account Manager. Westerling, a recognized specialist in public affairs and campaign strategy, brings a proven track record in grassroots organizing, coalition building, and community advocacy to the firm’s growing team.

Westerling’s expertise is rooted in complex, high-stakes environments. While based in Ventura County, California, she established a strong record of success, particularly in supporting law enforcement and oil and gas producers. Her work was instrumental in strengthening community relationships and developing meaningful policy solutions in these sectors.

Maggie began her professional career by managing and executing a countywide Sheriff campaign that unseated an incumbent by a 14% margin, highlighting her ability to coordinate complex projects and steward successful outcomes.

“Maggie’s proven ability to build genuine relationships and deliver political wins, even in challenging environments, makes her an invaluable addition to JCD Consulting,” said Chase Dugger, CEO for JCD Consulting. “Having recently relocated to the state, her dedicated focus and history of grassroots success will immediately benefit our clients across the region.”

Now based in Arkansas, Westerling relocated in 2025 where her husband, Billy, serves in the United States Air Force. She is eager to apply her unique expertise and perspective to continued focus on critical issues within the state.

A native of Ventura County, Maggie graduated from Chapman University in 2019 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Political Science and Strategic and Corporate Communication. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new local restaurants and spending time with her husband and their two dogs, Ellie and Max.