Arkansas Prison Plan Sparks GOP Rift

The governor wants a new, huge jail that would cost $825 million and add 3, 000 beds to a rural area. Some Republican senators worry about the expense and how the new facility would affect local roads and water supplies. In response, the governor has targeted two senators for primary challenges. This move shows how she is willing to push her agenda even if it creates political friction. The governor has already changed the state court’s balance and taken control of the corrections board. She also pushed for stricter parole rules and longer sentences, making the prison a key part of her plan.Her goal is to keep more people in jail, but the cost and impact on communities are raising concerns. The primary battles highlight a power struggle between her strong leadership style and senators who prefer a more cautious approach. The governor says she supports Republicans who want progress, not those who block change. Her actions reflect a broader debate over how to balance public safety with fiscal responsibility and community well‑being.