Bart Hester

Bart Hester is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Arkansas State Senate, representing the 33rd district. A member of the Republican Party, Hester has been in office since January 14, 2013. In addition to his legislative duties, he has held various leadership roles within the Senate, including serving as the majority leader and being elected as the President Pro Tempore for the 2023 session. Hester's professional background includes work as a real estate agent and experience as a former baseball player, which has contributed to his public persona and approach to governance.

Early life and career

Bart Hester was born on December 9, 1977, in Conway, Arkansas. Growing up in this community, he attended Green Forest High School, where he likely developed an interest in sports and leadership. Following his high school education, Hester pursued higher education at the University of Arkansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from the Sam M. Walton College of Business. This educational background provided him with a foundation in business principles, which would later influence his approach to legislative matters.

During his time at the University of Arkansas, Hester was also a member of the Arkansas Razorbacks baseball team, playing for three years. His involvement in collegiate athletics not only fostered teamwork and discipline but also helped him build a network and establish a public presence in Arkansas. After completing his education, Hester transitioned into a career in real estate, beginning his work as a real estate agent in 2005. This profession allowed him to engage with the community and gain insights into the housing market and economic issues affecting Arkansas residents.

Legislative service

Hester's political career began when he was elected to the Arkansas Senate in November 2012. He officially took office on January 14, 2013, marking the beginning of his legislative service. His election to the Senate came after a period of increasing political engagement, and he quickly became involved in various committees that shaped state policy.

From 2013 to 2015, Hester served as the vice chair of the House Children and Youth Committee, where he contributed to discussions and decisions regarding issues affecting children and families in Arkansas. This role allowed him to focus on important social issues and advocate for policies that would benefit the younger population of the state. His commitment to public service was further demonstrated during the 2017 legislative session when he took on the role of chair of the House Public Retirement and Social Security Programs Committee. In this capacity, he oversaw matters related to retirement systems and social security, which are critical to the well-being of many Arkansans.

In 2021, Hester was appointed as the chair of the Senate Efficiency Committee, a position that underscores his focus on improving the operational effectiveness of the Senate. This role likely involves evaluating legislative processes and recommending changes to enhance efficiency and productivity within the legislative body. Hester's leadership capabilities were recognized when he was appointed as the majority leader of the Senate, a position that involves significant responsibilities in guiding the legislative agenda and coordinating party strategy.

In 2022, Hester was elected as President Pro Tempore for the 2023 session of the Arkansas Senate. This prestigious role places him in a key leadership position, responsible for presiding over Senate sessions and representing the Senate in various capacities. His election to this position reflects the trust and confidence his colleagues have in his leadership abilities and his commitment to serving the interests of his constituents.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Arkansas Senate, Hester represents the 33rd district, which encompasses a diverse population with varying needs and interests. His policy focus has been shaped by his professional background in real estate and his experiences in the Senate. Hester has been involved in a range of legislative issues, including those related to public retirement, social security, and efficiency in government operations.

Hester's political actions have sometimes sparked controversy, reflecting the complex nature of legislative work. For instance, in May 2024, he publicly accused former gubernatorial candidate Chris Jones of holding a "Pro Hamas Terrorist" position, which led to a defamation lawsuit filed by Jones. The lawsuit was later dropped in 2025, highlighting the contentious nature of political discourse in Arkansas.

In 2025, Hester took a stand on educational funding when he led a group of legislators in threatening to withhold funding from the University of Arkansas. This action was prompted by the university's decision to hire law professor Emily Suski as the dean of its law school after it was revealed that she had submitted an amicus brief to the United States Supreme Court supporting the inclusion of transgender female athletes in competitions alongside cisgender women. This incident illustrates Hester's willingness to engage in significant policy debates and his commitment to representing the views of his constituents, particularly on issues related to education and social policy.

Throughout his legislative career, Hester has demonstrated a focus on issues that resonate with his constituents, often reflecting the values and priorities of the Republican Party. His leadership roles and committee assignments have positioned him to influence a variety of legislative matters, and his actions in the Senate continue to shape the political landscape in Arkansas. As he serves in the Arkansas Senate, Hester remains an active participant in the ongoing dialogue about the future of the state and the policies that will impact its residents.