WASHINGTON –Arkansas teens get a taste of political life during a visit to Washington, D.C. through participation in Boys Nation and Girls Nation. 

Sean Alexander, Kyle Witzigman, Haley Birch and Rachel Harris were selected as delegates from Arkansas’ Boys State and Girls State to attend the weeklong conferences in our nation’s capital.  

Throughout the week, student delegates learn about the process of the federal government by attending lectures and meetings as well as debating issues and taking part in mock elections. They also visit national landmarks including the U.S. Capitol where they met with Senator John Boozman. 

“We are excited to have such great young Arkansans like Sean, Kyle, Haley and Rachel representing our state at Boys Nation and Girls Nation. This is truly a great opportunity for them to experience how government works. I congratulate them on their hard work and enthusiasm for our country,” Boozman said. 

“This week has shown me that our government is not something you can just sit back and watch. It’s important to get involved, get active and have a voice,” Alexander said. 

Alexander is a senior at eStem Public Charter High School in Little Rock. He is the son of Pete and Kris Alexander. 

“The American Legion Boy’s Nation has changed my life. I’ve found a deeper appreciation for our government and our veterans. I will leave here with lifelong friends and memories,” Witzigman said. 

Witzigman is a senior at Har-Ber High School in Springdale. He is the son of Todd and Cindy Witzigman. 

“This has been one of the best experiences of my life! I’ve gotten to meet so many intelligent and beautiful girls while also getting to meet Senators Boozman and Pryor and even President Obama,” Birch said. 

Birch is a senior at Malvern High School in Malvern. She is the daughter of Bill and Luanne Birch.

“I am so fortunate to have been given this opportunity by the American Legion Auxiliary. The experiences here will last a lifetime,” Harris said. 

Harris is a senior at Russellville High School in Russellville. She is the daughter of Melanie and Bryan Harris. 

Each year, two delegates are chosen from Arkansas Boys State and Arkansas Girls State to travel to Washington for a Boys Nation and Girls Nation.