SEARCY, Ark. — A majority of counselors from the 2026 Arkansas Girls State session are raising concerns about the program’s leadership following what they describe as a mass resignation of staff.
In a statement released Sunday, 74 of 78 counselors said they are “alarmed” by the actions of the American Legion Auxiliary Arkansas Girls State committee and expressed support for staff members who stepped down earlier this week.
“We are alarmed by the current leadership of the American Legion Auxiliary Arkansas Girls State Committee,” the statement said. “We commend the core staff for their courage in resigning from this program following this week’s events.”
‘They’re the heart and soul,’ Arkansas Girls State staff resign during closing ceremonies
The statement outlines a series of allegations, including concerns about program management, participant treatment and rule enforcement during the session held at Harding University…