Social media is buzzing this weekend following the abrupt removal of Mike Mills as head of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. Appointed just six months ago, Mills had quickly gained popularity in his role, making his ouster all the more surprising.
A press release issued by the governor’s office on June 2 provided no insight into the reasons behind Mills’ departure. Rex Nelson, a columnist for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and a vocal critic of Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, expressed his bewilderment on Facebook, calling the situation an “outrage.”

Arkansas Outdoorsmen Upset by Mike Mills’ Sudden Dismissal
Despite having recently purchased a home in Little Rock, those close to Mills reported no signs that he intended to leave the position anytime soon. Mills was unavailable for comment, but an emotional exchange between him and Jimmy Bryant, the director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage, surfaced on social media, highlighting the unexpected nature of his dismissal. Bryant’s public comment stands out as a bold statement from a state employee who could face repercussions for voicing his support.
In the meantime, State Parks Director Shea Lewis will take over as interim chief. Speculation arises that the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism may soon be led by Bryan Sanders, the governor’s husband, who already chairs the Natural State Advisory Council, a newly established initiative aimed at promoting outdoor recreation and the outdoor economy. It appears that politics runs deep within the family.
Source : https://arktimes.com/arkansas-blog/2023/06/04/arkansas-outdoorsmen-shaken-by-mike-mills-ouster-as-parks-heritage-and-tourism-chief