A Benton County court document shows that the protection order against Austin McCollum, the sole candidate for county judge, has been extended for an additional two years. The order bars McCollum from contacting his wife, who is currently filing for divorce, and requires that any visitation with his children be supervised.
Criminal allegations and resignation
McCollum was arrested on August 1 on suspicion of aggravated assault of a family or household member, first‑degree false imprisonment, and third‑degree domestic battering. Although formal criminal charges had not been filed as of the Monday of the report, the arrest led him to resign from the Arkansas House of Representatives. He remains the only name on the ballot for the county judge race.
Election logistics
Kimberly Dennison, Benton County’s election coordinator, explained that candidates can only be removed from the ballot under limited circumstances, such as moving out of the district, serious illness, running for another office, or death. Because none of those conditions apply, McCollum stays on the ballot for the November election.
Early voting in Benton County is scheduled to begin on October 19, with the voter‑registration deadline set for October 5. Voters are reminded to bring a photo ID to the polls. Sample ballots and registration verification tools are available through the county’s website and the Arkansas Secretary of State’s VoterView portal.
What voters need to know
Residents who registered at the county clerk’s office but have not yet received a voter‑registration card should contact the clerk’s office to confirm their status. The county’s election website provides links to sample ballots, polling locations, and instructions for checking registration online.
While the protection order and pending criminal investigation raise concerns for many voters, the election process proceeds according to state law. Voters are encouraged to stay informed about the candidates, review the sample ballot, and exercise their right to vote on November 5.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
