Texarkana, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has officially declared Texarkana as Arkansas’ Capital for a Day on July 15, 2026, continuing a statewide program that brings senior government officials directly into communities across the state.
The proclamation makes Texarkana the 19th city to receive the Capital for a Day designation during Governor Sanders’ administration. As part of the initiative, the city will temporarily serve as the state’s seat of government while the governor and other senior officials meet with local leaders.
Governor Sanders noted that Texarkana holds personal meaning because it was home to her during part of her childhood. The program is designed to strengthen communication between state and local governments while recognizing the unique history and contributions of Arkansas communities.
City recognized for its history culture and regional importance
In the official proclamation, the governor highlighted Texarkana’s long history as a transportation and commercial hub in southwest Arkansas.
Located in Miller County along the state’s southwestern border, Texarkana received its name by combining Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. According to the proclamation, railroad surveyor Colonel Gus Knobel famously wrote “TEX-ARK-ANA” on a board and identified the location as the future site of the town. Since then, the city has served as a crossroads connecting people, businesses, and cultures for nearly 150 years.
Governor Sanders also recognized one of the city’s most well-known landmarks, the United States Post Office and Courthouse, which is unique because it sits in both Arkansas and Texas. Visitors can stand with one foot in each state while inside the federal building.
The proclamation also praised Texarkana’s military and aviation heritage. Among those recognized was Tuskegee Airman Woodrow “Woody” Crocket, who flew 149 combat missions during World War II. The governor also noted that the city continues to contribute to aviation by helping prepare future aerospace professionals.
Texarkana’s cultural traditions were also highlighted. Governor Sanders pointed to longtime community events such as the Four States Fair and Rodeo, attractions including the Tex-Arkansas Antique Auto Museum, and the city’s connection to the classic film Smokey and the Bandit. She said these landmarks and traditions have brought generations of Arkansans together over the years.
The Capital for a Day program was created to showcase communities across Arkansas while giving state officials the opportunity to meet directly with local governments and discuss issues affecting residents.
By naming Texarkana the state’s Capital for a Day on July 15, Governor Sanders is recognizing both the city’s historical importance and its continued role in Arkansas’ future.
The proclamation concludes with Governor Sanders formally inviting senior state government officials to join her in visiting Texarkana as it temporarily serves as Arkansas’ seat of government for the day.
