LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (November 5, 2025) – The Arkansas Department of Commerce announced today that Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has appointed Jimmy Harris as the new Arkansas Insurance Commissioner. Harris will be sworn in on Wednesday, November 5.
As Commissioner, Harris will lead the Arkansas Insurance Department (AID), whose primary mission is to protect consumers and ensure the financial stability of insurers. The Department also licenses and regulates insurance companies operating in Arkansas, administers the state government’s workers’ compensation program, provides Medicare counseling to senior citizens, and investigates consumer complaints and insurance fraud.
“Jimmy Harris has been instrumental in our fight to protect Arkansas consumers from unfair insurance price hikes,” said Governor Sanders. “I’m proud that he has stepped up to take on this role and look forward to our continued collaboration on behalf of the people of Arkansas.”
Since joining AID in 2012, Harris has held several leadership roles, serving as Compliance Director and Deputy Commissioner for Market Regulation. He has served as Interim Commissioner of AID since August.
“Jimmy’s extensive experience with AID and understanding of its mission make him uniquely equipped to step into this leadership role,” said Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. “Having previously served within the agency, he understands its operations, the industries it regulates, and the consumers it serves.”
“My top priority as Commissioner is protecting Arkansas consumers and ensuring a fair, stable insurance marketplace,” Harris said. “The Insurance Department’s work touches nearly every Arkansan, from helping seniors navigate Medicare to holding insurers accountable. I’m honored to be appointed Commissioner and lead a team so dedicated to serving the people of our state.”
Former Commissioner Alan McClain retired from AID in August 2025.