Dusty Deevers receives impressive conservative endorsements in SD32 special election

Pastor Dusty Deevers, GOP candidate in the Senate District 32 special election, has received several impressive endorsements from conservative Oklahoma and national groups.

The winner-take-all primary election for this Lawton-area seat will be October 10th, with the general election on December 12th. As I said previously, Dusty is an articulate communicator, tenaciously committed to principles that are fundamentally grounded on God's Word. He'll be a fierce advocate for conservatism, and will be a senator who can effectively resist the "Swamp" at the State Capitol. If you live in Senate District 32, I encourage you to vote for Dusty Deevers on October 10th!

AG Drummond creates organized crime task force to combat illegal marijuana grows

Drummond creates organized crime task force to combat illegal grow operations

Citizen tipline added

OKLAHOMA CITY (Sept. 20, 2023) – Attorney General Gentner Drummond has created an Organized Crime Task Force to combat the scourge of illegal marijuana grow operations across Oklahoma and added a resource for citizens to report suspicious activity related to unlicensed operations.

Brecheen reminds of Oct. 20th deadline for service academy nomination applications

Service Academy Nomination Deadline Fast Approaching; Completed Applications Must Be Received By October 20th!

Washington, D.C. (Sept. 19th) – The office of Congressman Josh Brecheen reminds constituents in Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District that completed application packets for service academy nominations must be received in the Claremore office by 5:00 pm October 20, 2023.

OSDE files Motion to Dismiss in religious charter school case

OSDE Files Motion to Dismiss in Religious Charter School Case

Oklahoma City, Okla (Sept. 20th) – Today, the Oklahoma State Department of Education filed a Motion to Dismiss in OKPLAC, INC., d/b/a Oklahoma Parent Legislative Action Committee, et al., v. STATEWIDE VIRTUAL CHARTER SCHOOL BOARD, et al. – concerning the approval of a religious charter school.

“Religious freedom is at the very bedrock of our nation,” said State Superintendent Ryan Walters. “Those who would sue to abridge the freedom of Americans to freely exercise their religion stand against 400 years of religious tolerance in America, predating the United States itself.  I will fight to protect the freedom of all Oklahomans enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and Oklahoma laws, especially in our schools.”

Lucas' Agricultural Security Risk Review Act passed by House committee

Lucas Legislation on Foreign Land Acquisition Passes Through Committee

Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the House Financial Services Committee passed the Agricultural Security Risk Review Act, his legislation to add the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

"Protecting America’s agriculture security is a critical part of our national security. With an increasing amount of foreign investment in U.S. agriculture, including the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of CFIUS is long overdue." said Congressman Frank Lucas.  "I know firsthand just how important the security of our agricultural industry is, which is why I applaud my colleagues on the House Financial Services Committee in taking a critical step to make my longstanding priority law." 

Small: Ranked-choice voting a bad idea

Ranked-choice voting a bad idea

By Jonathan Small

Oklahoma is one of only a relative handful of states that conduct runoff elections. Because those runoff elections cost taxpayer money – typically hundreds of thousands – and draw lower turnout, some officials argue we should abandon runoff elections and instead adopt “ranked choice” voting.

But a recent legislative study highlighted why that is a bad idea. Whatever savings might be achieved would be more than offset by widespread voter confusion, reduced transparency and effective disenfranchisement of many citizens.

Stitt, UKB and Kialegee tribal leaders agree on tribal gaming compacts, ask committee for approval

GOVERNOR STITT, CHIEF BUNCH AND MEKKO YAHOLA SEND LETTERS TO JOINT COMMITTEE ON STATE-TRIBAL RELATIONS, REQUEST APPROVAL OF TRIBAL GAMING COMPACTS

OKLAHOMA CITY (September 14, 2023) - Governor Kevin Stitt, in separate letters with United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) Chief Joe Bunch and Kialegee Tribal Town (KTT) Mekko Stephanie Yahola, called on the Joint Committee on State-Tribal Relations, Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, and House Speaker Charles McCall to convene to approve their agreed upon gaming compact.  

OSDE awarded nearly $10M grant to assist youth with disabilities

OSDE Announces Nearly $10 Million Pathways to Partnership Grant to Assist Oklahoma Youth with Disabilities

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Sept. 14th) – The Oklahoma State Department of Education has been awarded a nearly $10 million competitive grant from the United States Department of Education Rehabilitation Services Administration to support increased efforts in partnership to provide, improve, and expand services that address the transition needs of Oklahoma youth with disabilities. 

4th annual 'Giving Sight Day' sees eye docs across Oklahoma offering free exams on Sept. 30th

Oklahomans In-Need Can Receive Complimentary Vision Exams on Fourth Annual Giving Sight Day (9/30) 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Participating optometric physicians across the state of Oklahoma will be giving complimentary eye exams to those in-need as part of the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physician’s (OAOP) fourth annual Giving Sight Day.

Cong. Brecheen sets 14 town halls across 2nd District for October 2nd-4th

Congressman Josh Brecheen Announces October In-Person Town Halls

Washington, D.C. (Sept. 14th) – Congressman Josh Brecheen will hold in-person town hall meetings on Monday, October 2nd, Tuesday, October 3rd, and Wednesday, October 4th. Constituents are invited to attend and share their thoughts and ask questions on policy issues impacting Washington, D.C. and Oklahoma.

Congressman Brecheen has so far held 60 in-person town halls throughout Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District with more to be announced for November.  

Gov. Stitt, State Sup't Walters highlight school safety initiative

Governor Stitt and Superintendent Walters Statements on School Safety

Oklahoma Leaders Highlight School Safety Initiatives

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (September 12th) – Governor Kevin Stitt and Superintendent Ryan Walters have issued the following statements on school safety in conjunction with highlighting resources available in Oklahoma’s comprehensive school safety initiative:

Congressman Josh Brecheen announces September 28th telephone town hall

Congressman Josh Brecheen Announces September Telephone Town Hall

Washington, D.C. (Sept. 14th) – Congressman Josh Brecheen announced today that the next telephone town hall will now be on September 28th at 7:00pm CT.

The telephone town hall comes after Congressman Brecheen has held 60 in-person town halls throughout Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District with more to be announced soon.  

Small: Literacy report not a shocker

Literacy report not a shocker

By Jonathan Small

According to data from the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, a national survey, around 500,000 Oklahoma adults could be either functionally illiterate or would struggle to understand written information.

That won’t shock many employers at companies that offer entry-level positions. Talk to an employer, and you will hear tales of applicants who cannot perform simple tasks because of poor literacy skills.

Democratic legislative leaders gripe about GOP policies, special session goals

Able to do little else of substance, the leaders of the Democratic superminority in the Legislature are lambasting Gov. Stitt's call of a special session, and GOP priorities in general:

Democratic leaders comment on special session call

OKLAHOMA CITY (Sept. 14th) – Democratic legislative leaders Kay Floyd and Cyndi Munson released the following statement regarding the governor’s call for a special session on October 3, 2023.

State Sen. Pemberton appointed to chair Senate's Retirement & Insurance Committee

Senate Pro Tem Treat Appoints Sen. Pemberton as Retirement and Insurance Chairman

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, today announced the appointment of Sen. Dewayne Pemberton, R-Muskogee, as the chairman of the Senate Retirement and Insurance Committee.

“Sen. Pemberton has a wealth of knowledge and proven background in a number of areas during his time in the Senate,” Pro Tem Treat said. “He is an excellent leader who continues to perform well as a member of our caucus leadership team. Sen. Pemberton is informed and listens to all opinions before making a decision. For these reasons and others is why I think he will make an exceptional chairman of this committee. I appreciate him for accepting this new role in addition to his many others.”

Pro Tem Treat wants Governor to explain special session call before Appropriations Committee

Once again, the fight looks to be on between the Governor and the Senate, with the House seeming to lean more toward the Governor than against:

Pro Tem Treat Calls on Gov. Stitt to Appear before Appropriations Committee

Pro Tem Treat wants the governor to better explain special session call

OKLAHOMA CITY – During a media availability this afternoon, Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, called on Governor Kevin Stitt to appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee to explain his goal with his recent special session call.

Bingman's Corporation Commish candidacy endorsed by LtGov Pinnell, Commissioners Hiett and David

TOP REPUBLICAN LEADERS ENDORSE BRIAN BINGMAN FOR CORPORATION COMMISSION

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, September 7, 2023 - Statewide leaders joined Governor Kevin Stitt in lending their support of Brian Bingman for Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner.

Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell said: “I’m proud to throw my endorsement behind Secretary Bingman; he’s a strong conservative leader, extremely qualified for the job, and a man of faith. I’m thrilled that he’s wanting to continue to serve the people of Oklahoma as our next Corporation Commissioner.” Oklahoma Corporation Commissioners Kim David and Todd Hiett also issued endorsements today.

Commissioner David said in a statement, “Brian and I worked together in the state Senate, where he championed conservative reforms. His leadership and prowess will be an unmatched attribute on the Commission.”

Commissioner Hiett echoed his support for Bingman saying, “With more than 40 years of experience in the energy industry, Brian is the most qualified person to be the next Corporation Commissioner. He’ll bring invaluable knowledge, common sense and maturity that will help us in our efforts to protect our oil and gas industry.”

In response, Bingman said, “I’m honored to have the support and endorsement of our state’s top conservative leaders today. It’s very humbling that they are putting their trust in me to help make Oklahoma a better place to do business and raise a family. I look forward to getting together with them on day one to start working on our vision for the State.”

Bingman is the only announced Republican candidate for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. He currently serves as Senior Policy Advisor and Secretary of State to Governor Kevin Stitt.

Cong. Brecheen comments on 22nd anniversary of 9/11 terrorist attacks

Congressman Josh Brecheen Issues Statement on 22nd Anniversary of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Josh Brecheen issued the following statement to mark the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks.

“Twenty-two years ago, America changed forever, as nearly 3,000 innocent men and women were tragically killed in a cowardly terrorist attack that shook our nation to its core. Today, I join Americans across the country in solemnly remembering and honoring these victims and the families they left behind.

Gov. Stitt calls Legislature back for special session on tax policy, budget transparency

Continued fallout from the disastrous McGirt Supreme Court decision now has a case before the Oklahoma Supreme Court that could result in tens of thousands of tribal citizens being exempt from the state income tax. Read this from NonDoc: Stroble case asks OK Supreme Court to decide income tax rules on reservations (here's a follow-up article as well). Gov. Stitt is callng a special session to address this potential, as well as exploring tax cuts and increased state budget transparency.

GOVERNOR STITT CALLS FOR SPECIAL SESSION ON TAX FAIRNESS, TAX CUTS FOR ALL OKLAHOMANS AND TRANSPARENCY IN BUDGET PROCESS

OKLAHOMA CITY (September 11, 2023) - Today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced he is calling a special session of the Oklahoma Legislature beginning October 3, 2023, to demand tax fairness for all Oklahomans, deliver a tax cut to Oklahoma taxpayers, and increase transparency in the state budget process.

Small: Oklahoma colleges’ DEI mandates violate free speech

Oklahoma colleges’ DEI mandates violate free speech

By Jonathan Small

The Arizona Board of Regents recently announced that public universities in that state will no longer require “diversity, equity and inclusion” (DEI) statements from job applicants.

Oklahoma colleges and universities should do the same.

Ethics Commission director resigns in protest over perpetual lack of funding

When it comes to oversight and accountability, there are few two agencies that Oklahoma's elected officials have traditionally disliked more -- and funded less -- than the Oklahoma Ethics Commission and the State Auditor & Inspector. With the former, years of legislative neglect (or outright hostility) have led to the resignation-in-protest by the Ethics Commission's executive director.

Nat'l Taxpayers Union gives "Taxpayers’ Friend Award" to Lankford for conservative stance on fiscal issues

Lankford Receives “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” for Standing Up to Irresponsible Federal Spending 

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) was recognized by the National Taxpayers Union (NTU) for his votes in strong support of limited government, low taxes, and fiscal responsibility. This year Lankford is one of only six Senators to have earned the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” for their voting record during the 2022 congressional session.

Lankford demands Biden Admin investigate Chinese Communist Party influence in K-12 schools

Communist China has always tried to play the long game, putting a lot of resources into infiltrating Western governments, corporations, society, and culture. One way in which they've attempted to do this is by funding initiatives in all levels of education (K-12 and college). Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) is joining a number of colleagues in calling for the Biden administration to investigate the millions of dollars spent by the Chinese Communist Party in American classrooms.

State Rep. Humphrey requests investigation into ATF raid in Pushmataha County

Humphrey Requests Investigation into ATF Actions

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, today submitted a letter to the state's attorney general, to the sheriff of Pushmataha County, to the governor and to other judicial and law enforcement agencies asking for an investigation into an alleged raid by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) on a Pushmataha County resident and business owner that resulted in the forfeiture of the man's federal firearms license.

$22M in OK Lottery proceeds moved into Teacher Empowerment Fund for distribution

Senate Pro Tem Treat, Senate Education Chairman Pugh Announce over $22 Million Moved to Teacher Empowerment Fund

OKLAHOMA CITY (Sept. 1st) – Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, and Senate Education Chairman Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, today announced over $22.58 million has been deposited into the Teacher Empowerment Fund from the Oklahoma Lottery proceeds.

House Dems want to impeach State Superintendent Ryan Walters -- and fundraise off it

When you're a superminority party unable to do anything of consequence in the Legislature by reason of holding so few seats, what better way to try to regain relevance by drumming up attention with calls for an impeachment? Quick! Get CNN and MSNBC on the line!

And, of course, raise a quick buck off the political stunt. Gotta fundraise somehow!

State Sen. Hamilton appointed to Strategic Military Planning Commission

Hamilton appointed to Strategic Military Planning Commission

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, appointed Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, to the Strategic Military Planning Commission. Hamilton, an Army veteran and West Point graduate, will serve on the nine-member commission as an ex-officio member.

Small: “Equity,” “green energy,” produce bad results

“Equity,” “green energy,” produce bad results

By Jonathan Small

Public policy advanced primarily to gain social-media applause rather than improve people’s lives can have disastrous consequences, as seen recently in Hawaii.

In Hawaii, concerns about “equity” combined with promotion of “green” energy to create conditions where a wildfire could harm thousands and (apparently) kill hundreds. There were numerous steps along the way that could have prevented this tragedy. But policymakers never took those steps because of misplaced focus.

The wildfire is believed to have been caused by power lines that sparked a blaze in tall grass. The reason those conditions existed is due, in part, to politicians’ desire to campaign as opponents of hypothetical “climate change.”

Walters, legislators condemn and call for investigation of school bomb threats

Amid turmoil regarding leadership and reform in the Tulsa Public Schools, with seemingly growing political activism in the classroom by educators and countered by belligerent rhetoric from State Superintendent Ryan Walters, some loser(s) thought it would be cool to send fake bomb threats aimed at several Tulsa-area schools.

Coinciding with circulation of a fake Ryan Walters for Governor website, I'm personally inclined to think it was someone trying to pin this on Walters and conservatives who are upset with continued revelations of 'wokeness' and partisan liberal ideology in the classroom.

Anyway, Walters condemned the bomb threats (duh) and is calling for a full investigation of the threats. House Speaker Charles McCall and State Rep. T.J. Marti (representing one of the districts that received a threat) both issues similar statements. Both legislators offered similar sentiments, including displeasure with some of the rhetoric involved on both sides of public education reform.

State Rep. Olsen: Issues with SB26X and two-tiered system of unequal justice

Issues with SB26X

By Rep. Jim Olsen

The Legislature recently voted to overturn the governor's veto of Senate Bill 26X, which effectively gives another year for the tribal compacts to be negotiated.

It would be easy to look at this issue as pretty simple. The tribes just want another year to negotiate the compacts. Just give them another year, right? What's the big deal?

Hasn't the Cherokee Nation been very generous to our area, helping with schools, bridges, roads and numerous other community projects? Absolutely yes, to the tune of tens of millions of dollars!

Doesn't it behoove us to seek collaboration with the various tribal nations for the benefit of us all? Of course it does!

However, I have found this issue to be a little more complicated than I had at first realized, as there are several legal or constitutional issues with voting for this veto override.

There is a good chance that the Oklahoma Supreme Court will declare this bill to be unconstitutional.

First, we passed it during a special session, meaning that any bill heard during the special session must be related to the topic originally referenced in the call, as required by our state constitution. The call of the special session was related to the Fiscal Year 2024 state budget.  The argument for the call being related to the compacts is that the outcome of the vote on the bill could have a fiscal impact. However, almost every bill we vote on has some sort of fiscal impact. Therefore, if fiscal impact means that it is germane, then germaneness as a requirement for a bill to be included in a call for special session loses any meaning whatsoever.  I believe addressing the compacts during a special session for the budget is a stretch at best.

Secondly, the constitution specifically designates these negotiations with tribal nations to the governor. The Legislature affirmed this in 2014 when we put into statute that the governor is responsible for conducting these negotiations.

In the immediate sense, it is possible for the Legislature to change the statute. However, there is a proper way to change existing laws, rather than simply ignoring it for the sake of another law.

If we want to change statute, we must either amend the existing statute or add the statement "notwithstanding other provisions of law," neither of which was carried out prior to the passage of SB26X.

The issue that overshadows everything else is that the Oklahoma Constitution assigns the responsibility of negotiations with the tribes to the governor, not the Legislature, the Judiciary branch or any other part of our state government.

Every two years since I joined the House in 2018, I have affirmed an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and the Oklahoma Constitution. If I knowingly defy our state constitution, I have violated my oath of office, and this is something I cannot and will not do.

In addition to the direct constitutional issues, there are other issues with the compact agreements that the tribes are bringing forth.

They argue that the phrase "Indian country" should be used in these compacts. What's the problem with that? The issue is that this brings us closer to a two-tiered system of law in Oklahoma. This has been expressly advocated in some of the legal briefs from the tribes in various court cases and is expressed in the following court cases:

Alicia Stroble, a member of the Muskogee (Creek) Nation who lives in Okmulgee, argues that she is exempt from Oklahoma state taxes because she is a tribal member living in Indian Country.

Justin Hooper, a member of the Choctaw Nation, argues that he is exempt from paying a $150 speeding ticket within the City of Tulsa because he is a tribal member.

We've also seen that under the new "plate pay" system by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, tribal members with unregistered tribal tags are not in the OTA's system and thus cannot be charged for using turnpikes. One vehicle with a Cherokee Nation tag has reportedly failed to pay $670 in tolls since May 15. Should they be exempt because of their tribal affiliation?

If things keep going in this direction, the implications of this two-tiered system would eventually be even more extensive. We must maintain equal justice in Oklahoma.

Rep. Jim Olsen represents District 2 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes portions of Seqouyah County.

New OSDE video expresses optimism, goals for TPS

This is something of a follow-up to a story from earlier in the week: Stitt, Walters comment on resignation of Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Gist. Today, Walters' Oklahoma State Department of Education posted a video expressing optimism and goals for TPS.

OSDE Releases New Video for Tulsa Community

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (August 25, 2023) – Today, OSDE released a new video expressing the newfound hope and optimism for the students in Tulsa Public Schools.

State Rep. Conley will not seek reelection in 2024

Rep. Conley Announces She will not Seek Reelection in 2024

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Sherrie Conley, R-Newcastle, announced Thursday she would not seek a fourth term in 2024. Conley, whose district covers parts of McClain and Cleveland counties, was first elected in 2018, and was reelected in 2020, and 2022.

“It has been the honor of my life to serve my family, friends and neighbors in House District 20,” Conley said. "I have had amazing successes and incredible challenges, which I know will allow me to continue to serve the state of Oklahoma and the communities I represent as I move into my next chapter.”

Stitt, Walters comment on resignation of Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Gist

Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Gist resigned earlier this week, amid calls for her removal by State Superintendent Ryan Walters over Tulsa's plummeting public education scores during her disastrous tenure.

Below are comments from Walters and Gov. Stitt, emphasizing their view that this could be a turning point of improvement for Tulsa Public Schools. For some excellent background on the Gist situation, read this over at BatesLine.

OCPA column: OU gets national attention — the wrong kind

OU gets national attention—the wrong kind

By Jonathan Small

The University of Oklahoma recently made national news—for the wrong reasons.

An investigation by The Wall Street Journal found that some of the United States’ best-known public universities “have been on an unfettered spending spree” with the bill “passed” on to students—and OU was identified as one of the worst offenders.

Between 2002 and 2022, the Journal found enrollment at OU increased 15 percent, but tuition increased by 36 percent even after adjusting for inflation. And, once student fees were included, the combined rate of growth was even more dramatic.

Donald Trump defiant in sure-to-be iconic mugshot

In his first post on Twitter since being banned in 2021, former President Donald Trump posted an image of his defiant mugshot, taken today at the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta, Georgia, and released this evening by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office.

Brecheen after 60 town halls: Here's what I'm hearing from the people of the 2nd District

60 town halls (you know, the old-fashioned, real, in-person kind, not on Zoom or via conference call) in eight months? That's likely more than his predecessor did in ten years.

Congressman Brecheen is a hard worker, endeavors to keep his constituents up-to-date, and is a ferocious advocate for the Constitution and Christian values. Couldn't be happier with him as my Congressman!

Congressman Brecheen: Here’s What I Am Hearing From the People of Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District

“During my first eight months in office, I have had the privilege of hosting 60 in-person town halls throughout Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District.

From Washington and Ottawa all the way down to Bryan and McCurtain counties, it has been an honor to travel throughout the district and meet so many wonderful people.

As a former field representative for the late Senator Tom Coburn, I have always believed that in-person town halls are the best way for Members of Congress to learn and hear from their constituents.

State Rep. Martinez resigns amid fallout over felony DUI plea

Proverbs 20:1 says, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." True words.

State Rep. Ryan Martinez was arrested on a DUI-related offense back in October, escalated to a felony due to having a past DUI charge. As was the case with another fellow drunkard legislator, the intoxicated Martinez tried to use his "get out of jail free card" (newsflash: it isn't) and political connections to evade arrest -- to no avail. Martinex pled guilty earlier this month to the felony charge, receiving a one-year deferred sentence, $1,000 in court costs, and six months of an alcohol interlock device in his vehicle.

Statutory language prohibiting legislators from holding office with a felony conviction or plea launched a disagreement between Gov. Stitt on one side, and House Speaker Charles McCall and Attorney General Gentner Drummond on the other. I feel that Stitt is in the right on this, and McCall/Drummond are not. Martinez ended the argument by going ahead and resigning (triggering a special election). Many thanks to NonDoc for good coverage on this story over the months.

Bodycam footage of arrest

Martinez Releases Statement, Resigning Office

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ryan Martinez, R-Edmond, today issued the following statement saying he will resign from his legislative seat effective Sept. 1, 2023.

AG Drummond calls on Congress to pass bill to protect ag industry from radical California regulations

Drummond calls on Congress to pass EATS Act

OKLAHOMA CITY (Aug. 16, 2023) — Attorney General Gentner Drummond is calling on U.S. Congressional leadership to pass the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act. The bill prevents California from burdening farmers and ranchers across the country with radical anti-agriculture regulations.

Secretary of State, former Senate Pro Tem Bingman to run for Corporation Commission, endorsed by Gov. Stitt

Buckle up: the 2024 primary is just around the corner.

GOVERNOR KEVIN STITT ENDORSES BRIAN BINGMAN
FOR CORPORATION COMMISSION
Governor's Senior Policy Advisor brings unequaled
private, public-sector experience to job

Oklahoma City, Okla., August 16, 2023- Oklahoma Secretary of State Brian Bingman announced today he is filing as a candidate for Corporation Commission.

“The regulatory industry dramatically impacts our business environment and ability to recruit jobs. I need Brian Bingman because of his experience and his unquestioned integrity,” said Governor Stitt.

In response, Bingman said, “I'm honored to have the endorsement of not only Governor Stitt but so many Oklahomans who have asked me to serve in this capacity to make Oklahoma more business friendly.”

Small: LeBron school busts narrative

LeBron school busts narrative

By Jonathan Small

For several years officials have blamed poor student outcomes in public schools on outside factors, such as poverty. Their proposed solution: “wraparound” services that largely duplicate in schools the welfare programs normally provided through a department of human services.

Well, that theory has now been put to the test—and failed.

State Sen. Cody Rogers announces he will not seek reelection

Remember all the complaints from opponents of legislative term limits? That twelve years was too short? About that... yeah, almost nobody "terms out" in Oklahoma any more. Between incumbents losing reelection bids, resigning mid-term due to some job opportunity (or scandal), or not seeking another term, comparitively few legislators are reaching their full twelve-year tenure. Term limits has not been the reason for the tremendous amount of turnover in the legislature over the past decade or less.

Sen. Rogers announces he will not seek reelection

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Cody Rogers, R-Tulsa, announced Monday that he would not be seeking reelection to the Oklahoma Senate. Rogers was elected to the state’s upper chamber in 2020 and his current term is set to end in 2024.

Rogers said after much careful consideration, he has decided to pursue other options, but expressed his gratitude to his constituents for allowing him to represent them in the Senate.

Garvin County legislators ask for AG opinion on sales taxes for rural ambulance services

Roe, Garvin Push for AG Opinion on Sales Taxes for Rural Ambulance Services

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay, and Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan, have requested an opinion from Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond regarding the distribution of county sales tax revenue to support private businesses providing a public service.

In April 2021, Garvin County voters approved Proposition No. 2, which would set aside a portion of sales tax toward Emergency Management Services (EMS) in certain rural areas that did not previously maintain emergency services.

Gov. Stitt offers 1-year extension for Cherokee car tag compact

GOVERNOR STITT OFFERS ONE YEAR EXTENSION FOR CHEROKEE CAR TAG COMPACT

OKLAHOMA CITY (August 10, 2023) - Governor Kevin Stitt sent a letter to the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation with an offer of a one-year extension on their current car tag compact set to expire on August 16, 2023. The offer contains the same material terms provided in the existing compact.

Walters calls for "immediate accountability and improvement" in failing Tulsa Public Schools

The statistics out of the Tulsa Public Schools are... atrocious doesn't even suffice. The public education system is absolutely letting these kids down. Whatever they're doing is not working. The upcoming generation of Tulsa-area adults will be reaping the results of a terrible harvest.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters is bringing attention to this issue. Now, he needs to present a concrete plan to address the crisis.

Walters Releases Video Illustrating Timeline of Leadership Failures in TPS 

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Superintendent Walters released a video, posted to SDE.ok.gov, that shows a timeline of negligence by Tulsa Public Schools. 

Dr. Gist has claimed that Superintendent Walters is “manufacturing a crisis” regarding his concern about the low-quality education and failing school report cards in the Tulsa district. 

State Sen. Newhouse announces he will not seek reelection

Sen. Newhouse announces he will not seek reelection 

OKLAHOMA CITY (August 11th) – Sen. Joe Newhouse, R-Tulsa, announced Friday that he would not be seeking a third term in 2024. Newhouse, whose district covers Bixby, south Tulsa, and parts of Jenks and Glenpool, was first elected in 2016 and then ran unopposed in 2020.

Brecheen to hold 'satellite' offices throughout 2nd District August 21st-25th

Congressman Josh Brecheen Announces Satellite Office Hours

Washington, D.C. – The office of Congressman Josh Brecheen will be holding Satellite Office Hours throughout Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District later this month.

Constituents are invited to attend to meet with our Field Representatives and help inform us how Congressman Josh Brecheen’s office can best serve you.

Small: Tulsa schools show need for better state review

Tulsa schools show need for better state review

By Jonathan Small

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters recently indicated Tulsa Public Schools could face a downgrade in its state accreditation status. That would mark the second year in a row the district has had an accreditation downgrade.

But the fact that Tulsa held the state’s top accreditation rating just a few years ago suggests the system is, if anything, too lenient. Tulsa’s academic outcomes have long been abhorrent, and district leadership found a way to make things even worse by ending in-person instruction for more than a year during COVID.

Gov. Stitt appoints Melissa Handke to serve as District Attorney for 20th District

GOVERNOR STITT APPOINTS MELISSA HANDKE TO SERVE AS DISTRICT ATTORNEY FOR 20TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

OKLAHOMA CITY (August 3, 2023) - Today Governor Kevin Stitt announced his appointment of Melissa Handke to serve as the District Attorney for the 20th Judicial District. This district includes Carter, Johnston, Love, Marshall, and Murray counties.

Pastor Dusty Deevers announces candidacy in Oklahoma Senate District 32 special election

The recent resignation of State Sen. John Michael Montgomery has triggered a special election in State Senate District 32. Six candidates - four Republican, two Democratic - filed for this seat in the Lawton area, which has been held by Republicans since 2018. The winner-take-all primary election will be October 10th, with the general election on December 12th.

One of the four Republicans is a man of stellar character and conservatism, Dusty Deevers.

Lt. Gov. Pinnell: Investing in Oklahoma's workforce

INVESTING IN OKLAHOMA'S WORKFORCE 

By Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell 

As your Lieutenant Governor, I have had the privilege of visiting with countless businesses in all 77 counties. Most of the time, I’m included in celebrations – welcoming a new company coming to town or breaking ground on an expansion. I’m grateful for the opportunity to celebrate those economic development wins, and I’m particularly excited when those happen in rural Oklahoma.