Overview
- Griffen won 25,638 to 15,251 over Hyde, unseating the three-term incumbent by roughly 10,000 votes.
- If he prevails in November, Griffen would become Pulaski County’s first Black county judge.
- Hyde’s tenure drew criticism over a proposed county land-use plan, while Griffen campaigned on land use, workforce support, public safety and sustainability.
- Early and absentee returns in other races showed Sheriff Eric Higgins leading 81% to 19% with no Republican opponent, and prosecuting attorney challenger Bobby Forrest Jr. ahead of incumbent Will Jones 54% to 46%.
- Judicial and county contests also tilted in early counts, with Robert Tellez at 55% in a three-way circuit judge race that could avoid a runoff if a majority holds, Treasurer Debra Buckner leading 69% to 31%, and Judge Patti James up 80% to 20%, all still unofficial.