Democratic Governor Mike Beebe, who signed the new map into law in April 2011, described it as the "status quo"[1] and not partisan.

Organizations Labor unions Steve Womack Republican Steve Womack Republican Population growth in Arkansas's northwestern counties meant that the 3rd district had to shrink in the new map.

[36] On August 14, 2012, Kennedy received the endorsement of the Arkansas state AFL-CIO labor union.

[9] Democratic incumbent Mike Ross, who was first elected in 2000, chose not to seek re-election.

[37] Bobby Tullis had considered seeking Libertarian nomination for the seat;[48] however in December 2011 Tullis gave his support to Republican candidate Beth Anne Rankin;[43] nevertheless, he was subsequently nominated as the Libertarian candidate.