CQPolitics

Arkansas’ hilly northwest subscribes to a rugged conservatism unique in this Democratic state, and its Republican bent remains despite an influx of newcomers.

Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale and Fayetteville, all in the state’s northwest corner, represent the wealthier part of the 3rd, where history, religious tradition and an influx of retirees have created a solid GOP base. The 2000 census rated this corridor one of the 10 fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the nation. Hometown giants Tyson Foods in Springdale and Wal-Mart in Bentonville provide economic stability, as does the University of Arkansas’ flagship campus in Fayetteville. Farther south and nestled in a bend of the Arkansas River, Fort Smith is a regional manufacturing center; major investment by local government and investors has led to commercial and residential redevelopment here.

Overall, the 3rd has prospered recently from tourism. Anchored by the lush Ozark National Forest, located in the district’s south, and Beaver Lake, located in the north, the area attracts thousands of visitors each year. Outdoor enthusiasts take in the gorgeous scenery and history buffs visit Civil War sites such as Pea Ridge National Military Park, as well as the museums and landmarks in Fort Smith, which cover everything from the founding of the namesake fort to the Belle Grove Historic District.

Although the GOP-leaning northwest sets the political tone, the rest of the 3rd — particularly farming communities and the city of Fort Smith — is more open to electing Democrats. The 3rd was the only Arkansas district to give George W. Bush more than 52 percent in the 2004 presidential election (he captured 62 percent here) and it was the state’s only district to withhold hearty support from native son Bill Clinton in 1996. The 3rd has sent a Republican to Congress since the 1966 election.

Major Industry

Agriculture, livestock, retail, tourism

Cities

Fort Smith, 80,268; Fayetteville, 58,047; Springdale, 45,798; Rogers, 38,829; Russellville, 23,682; Bentonville, 19,730

Notable

Eureka Springs hosts an outdoor drama, The Great Passion Play, which boasts the seven-story Christ of the Ozarks Statue; Atkins is Picklecity, USA, and hosts a Picklefest event each May.