Reaction from across Arkansas continues to grow following Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ appearance Wednesday with Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk, where the group announced plans to expand Club America chapters in Arkansas high schools.
The governor signed a proclamation encouraging the formation of Club America clubs in schools across the state. However, the move has raised questions about the role of the organization and whether the proclamation carries any enforceable authority.
Turning Point USA officials say the program is simply another extracurricular option for students.
“We are an extracurricular club, just like if a student wanted to join the chess club or the football team,” said Club America Enterprise Director Nick Cocca during Wednesday’s press conference. “If they want to be a part of Club America, we welcome you. If not, that’s okay.”
Cocca said the Club America program aims to help develop young conservative leaders.
“Any student that believes in Charlie Kirk’s mission and wants to pick up that mantle and fight for American exceptionalism and limited government,” he said.
According to Cocca, the proclamation signed by Sanders is not legally binding and does not require schools to approve the clubs, but he believes it sends an important message.
“I think the state is affirming their First Amendment right to speak their mind and to assemble,” Cocca said.
Some Democratic leaders have expressed concerns about the political implications of the announcement. State Sen. Fred Love, the Democratic Party’s newly selected nominee for governor, questioned whether the proclamation conflicts with the Arkansas Access Act passed in 2023.
The law was intended to prevent political indoctrination in schools and was referenced earlier this year during student protest walkouts across the state.
“We pretty much stripped the First Amendment rights away from students to participate in political protests, but if it’s for Turning Point USA, we’re going to make that exception,” Love said.
Governor Sanders has said her administration will support students who want to start Club America chapters if they face resistance from schools.
Turning Point USA officials say the organization has already expanded its presence in Arkansas. According to the group, about 16% of Arkansas high schools now have Club America chapters, compared to about 4% last year.
Schools listed with chapters include Fayetteville, Alpena, Viola, Highland, Marshall, Conway, Cabot, Benton, Jessieville, Monticello and several others across the state.
One student, Fayetteville High School junior Lucas Klaus, said he faced significant opposition when he attempted to start a chapter at his school following the death of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
“Our club received extra approval requirements written out by the school,” Klaus said. “We faced opposition from teachers and students adults in the community amplified this position online. Ultimately, the police needed to become involved for my safety.”
While the proclamation does not require schools to allow the clubs, the debate surrounding their presence in Arkansas schools is expected to continue.
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