Arkansas’s 3rd Congressional District has been represented by Republican Congressman Steve Womack since 2011. As of 2025, he continues to serve his constituents, bringing a wealth of experience from his military and public service careers. Below is a comprehensive overview of Congressman Womack’s recent election victory, career trajectory, legislative activities, policy positions, and other pertinent information for voters.
2024 Election Victory
In the November 5, 2024, general election, Congressman Womack secured his eighth term in the U.S. House of Representatives. He garnered 63.8% of the vote, defeating Democratic challenger Caitlin Draper, who received 31.8%, and Libertarian candidate Bobby Wilson, who obtained 4.4%. This decisive victory underscores the strong support he maintains within the district.
Career Path to Congress
- Early Life and Education: Born on February 18, 1957, in Russellville, Arkansas, Steve Womack graduated from Russellville High School in 1975. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Arkansas Tech University in 1979.
- Military Service: In 1979, Womack enlisted in the Arkansas Army National Guard. Over a distinguished 30-year military career, he rose to the rank of colonel before retiring in 2009.
- Professional Career: Concurrently with his military service, Womack managed KURM-AM, a radio station founded by his father. He later served as the executive officer for the University of Arkansas’s Army ROTC program and worked as a financial consultant for Merrill Lynch.
- Political Career: Womack was elected mayor of Rogers, Arkansas, in 1998, serving until 2011. During his tenure, he focused on initiatives to address illegal immigration and enhance local law enforcement. In 2010, he was elected to represent Arkansas’s 3rd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Sponsored Legislation
As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Womack has been actively involved in legislation pertaining to budgetary and fiscal matters. He serves as the Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Subcommittee and is a member of the Defense and Financial Services and General Government Subcommittees. His legislative efforts have focused on infrastructure development, national defense, and fiscal responsibility.
Votes and Stances on Major Social Issues
- Abortion: Congressman Womack is a staunch opponent of abortion. He praised the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, stating that it “rightfully restores the American people’s ability to protect babies and recognizes the science-backed truths of the humanity of the unborn.”
- Same-Sex Marriage: In 2015, Womack condemned the Supreme Court’s ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, reflecting his conservative stance on marriage.
- Voting Rights: Womack has consistently opposed measures to expand voter registration and access. He voted against H.R. 1, expressing concerns that it would nationalize the American electoral system and infringe on free speech rights.
Votes and Stances on Major Economic Issues
- Tax Policy: In December 2017, Womack voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, supporting significant tax reductions for individuals and corporations.
- Government Spending: As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Womack has advocated for fiscal discipline. He has expressed concerns over increased government spending and emphasized the need for responsible budgeting, especially in light of rising national debt and inflation.
- Antitrust Legislation: In 2022, Womack was among 39 Republicans who voted for the Merger Filing Fee Modernization Act, an antitrust package aimed at curbing anti-competitive behavior among corporations.
Demographics of Arkansas’s 3rd Congressional District
Arkansas’s 3rd Congressional District encompasses the northwestern region of the state, including cities such as Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, and Rogers. The district has experienced significant population growth, driven by a robust economy and the presence of major corporations like Walmart and Tyson Foods. The population is predominantly White, with growing Hispanic and Asian communities contributing to the area’s diversity. The district is known for its relatively high median household income compared to other parts of Arkansas, reflecting its economic vitality.
Controversial Statements
- Immigration Enforcement: As mayor of Rogers, Womack assigned Immigration and Naturalization Service agents to the local police department to address illegal immigration. This move led to a class-action lawsuit alleging racial profiling, highlighting tensions surrounding immigration enforcement policies.
- January 6 Commission: In May 2021, Womack was one of 35 Republicans who voted in favor of establishing a commission to investigate the January 6 Capitol riot, a decision that drew criticism from some within his party.
