Gov. Sanders: Arkansas Can Supply 20% of Global Lithium

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders came to Texarkana on Wednesday to declare her childhood town of Texarkana, Arkansas, the state capitol for the day.

The Governor also spoke at the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce's State of Lithium Conference this week. Speaking to a crowd of business leaders, city officials, and industry representatives, Gov. Sanders said,

Arkansas is standing on the edge of a transformational change to our economy.

She stated that Arkansas has the potential to supply more than 20% of the global demand of lithium.

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A Resource With Global Importance in Arkansas

Sanders highlighted the massive lithium reserves found in Arkansas' Smackover Formation, describing the state's unique opportunity to become a leader in domestic lithium production.

Lithium is a critical component used in rechargeable batteries that power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. State leaders believe Arkansas has one of the nation's most promising lithium resources.

Building More Than Just Mining

One of the key things Sanders said was that Arkansas won't just be extracting lithium. The goal will be to refine the lithium, process it, and have the manufacturing plants that would create long-term economic opportunities for Arkansans.

Looking Ahead to Arkansas' Future

While commercial lithium production here is in its early stages, royalty commitments are being approved. There are several sites now that are on the verge of production. Companies are interested and want to be a part of the growth in Arkansas' future and its ability to become a national hub for lithium and energy innovation.

If industry projections hold true, Arkansas could soon find itself at the center of America's growing effort to secure a domestic supply of lithium for decades to come, where we wouldn't have to rely on China for lithium.

You can listen to Governor Sanders' whole speech below.