Which party will control the U.S. House of Representatives after the November elections? It becomes harder to predict each time a state redraws its congressional district map.

As the year began, the conventional wisdom was that Democrats probably would retake the U.S. House majority because the party that doesn’t control the White House typically does better in the midterm elections. Republicans were favored to maintain control of the Senate.

President Trump’s current low approval ratings, along with $4 gas prices, would seem to further improve the Democrats’ chances. Supposedly, Democrats can even win a U.S. Senate seat in Texas, although I’ll believe it when I see it. 

On the other hand, it’s a long way to November, and things can change. 

Furthermore, the redistricting efforts by both parties, with Republicans appearing to benefit more, have scrambled the picture. Continue reading →

How many constitutional amendments will Arkansas voters consider in November? At least three and as many as six, though probably not that many.

The three that definitely will be on the ballot were referred by lawmakers last year. 

One would amend the Arkansas Constitution’s guarantee of the “right to keep and bear arms, for their common defense” by adding the words “lawful hunting and recreational use; and any other lawful purpose.” It also would include as part of that right the possession and use of ammunition and firearm accessories and components.

Another proposal states that only United States citizens can vote in Arkansas, which is already a constitutional requirement. 

The third would allow cities and counties to create economic development districts. For example, a city could create tax incentives to encourage construction in a decayed area.

Meanwhile, three citizen groups seek to qualify amendments for the ballot.  Continue reading →