wow!!!
Per CDS, their admit rate is a tinge under 39% - so it’s really a bit lower based on that high ED rate.
So there you go OP - like I said, you can’t demonstrate better than ED - because you’re a guaranteed butt in seat.
But as strong as American is in your areas of interest - it IS NOT worth taking on substantial debt - many a successful person comes from many a college in poli sci and does great. My daughter is at College of Charleston in this area and thriving - so it’s up to you to thrive, to get involved on campus and you can do great.
Have you looked at UALR (state capital) or OU (Norman is close to the capital) or LSU in Baton Rouge, etc? You might find internship opportunities, etc. And of course there’s local ones most anywhere.
Good luck.