Kaneaster Hodges Jr. (/kə.ˈniː.stɜːr/ kə-NEE-stur; August 20, 1938 – March 23, 2022) was an American politician who served as a United States senator from Arkansas[1] from 1977 to 1979.

in religion after completing a senior thesis titled "George Bernanos: A Twentieth Century Prophet.

The two moved to Dallas, Texas and Hodges attended Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University, graduating magna cum laude in 1963.

He participated in the Methodist Student Movement, where he served as national president traveling the country in support of civil rights.

During his career, in addition to practicing law Hodges was a farmer, Methodist lay minister, and hospital and prison chaplain.

His time in the Senate was most noted for his stands in favor of the Panama Canal treaties and against tuition tax credits for parents of private school students.

He became involved in several business ventures, including real estate development in Arkansas and adjoining states.