Democrat Natalie James Announces Candidacy for U.S. Senate

James joins a crowded field of candidates challenging incumbent John Boozman.

Natalie James headsot

Little Rock native and small business owner Natalie James is announcing her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for United States Senate today. Her official campaign kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. at Nexus Coffee & Creative in downtown Little Rock.

“Today, as a mother, a small business owner and as an Arkansan who believes we deserve better, I’m announcing my candidacy for the Democratic nomination to be Arkansas’ next United States Senator,” James said in a press release. “I launch this campaign to restore the promise of the American Dream to all Arkansans and all Americans.”

James is kicking off her campaign with a nine-city tour across Arkansas. Her tentative schedule includes stops in Little Rock, Conway and Fayetteville today; Texarkana, Camden and El Dorado tomorrow; and Pine Bluff, Forrest City and West Memphis Wednesday.

“We have faced turbulent times and we have overcome them — not by drowning out our neighbors or closing off our hearts, ears and minds, but by realizing that having our differences in opinion does not mean we can not find common ground to get things done and make progress for all,” she said.

James is challenging incumbent Republican Senator John Boozman who announced his reelection campaign in March. Boozman, who was first elected in 2010, is seeking his third term in office during the 2022 general election. 

“Now more than ever Arkansas needs strong, conservative leadership in Washington. I am proud to be that leader,” Boozman said in his reelection announcement.

Republican challengers include Jan Morgan, Michael Deel and Heath Loftis. On the Democratic side, Dan Whitfield and Jack Foster have declared their candidacy. 

The general election is scheduled for Nov. 8, 2022.