Reps. Gann, Kevin West ask OK Supreme Court to end 'muzzling' of customers opposing $29M ONG rate hike

Gann, Kevin West ask OK Supreme Court to End ‘Muzzling’ of Utility Customers opposing $29M ONG Rate Increase

OKLAHOMA CITY (June 19, 2026) – Just a day after winning reelection to his House seat, Rep. Tom Gann, R-Inola, filed an appeal of another ruling of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) to the Oklahoma Supreme Court. He was joined by Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore.

A June 11 OCC ruling denied the intervention of customers trying to participate in the latest rate case for Oklahoma Natural Gas Company (ONG). The utility is seeking a $29 million rate increase. If approved, it would mark the fourth rate hike the OCC has approved for ONG in the last four years, increasing customer bills by more than $128 million.

Often joined by Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener, Gann, West and West now have eleven OCC utility appeals pending before the state’s highest court. This latest appeal, filed June 17, brings the total amount of ONG, OG&E and PSO customer payments the representatives have challenged to $500 million in rate increases, $3.2 billion in 2021 Winter Storm bonds, $11 billion in fuel charges, and $1.3 billion in new capacity preapprovals. Six of those appeals are now fully briefed and under consideration by the Supreme Court.

Sen. Sacchieri bill would set moratorium on new data centers, study long-term effect on utilities, environment

Senator Sacchieri Files Legislation to Address Unknown Impacts of Data Centers on Oklahoma Communities

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (Jan. 22nd) — Senator Kendal Sacchieri (R-Blanchard) has introduced Senate Bill 1488, legislation that would establish a moratorium on the construction of new data centers in Oklahoma until November 1, 2029 and direct the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to study the long-term effects these large facilities may have on state infrastructure and resources.

The moratorium would pause new data center development while the Corporation Commission conducts a comprehensive review of key concerns, including water supply impacts, utility rate pressures, property value effects, and optimal siting practices. The bill requires the Commission to submit its findings and recommendations to the Legislature to inform future policy decisions.

Legislators study impact of data center expansion on Oklahoma’s water resources, power grid

Clinton studies impact of data center expansion on Oklahoma’s water resources and power grid

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Amanda Clinton, D-Tulsa, conducted an Interim Study on the impact of data center expansion on Oklahoma’s water resources and power grid in front of the Utilities Committee. 

Data centers range from small to regional facilities that support hospitals, universities, or private businesses to large-scale developments called “hyperscalers,” that support social media, streaming services and generative AI. Clinton’s study focused primarily on hyperscalers as they are experiencing the most significant growth.

“Data centers are an increasingly significant part of Oklahoma’s economy and infrastructure,” said Clinton. “But as this industry experiences unprecedented growth, it is also poorly understood by many. In short, data centers power our everyday lives, fuel our modern conveniences and make daily tasks more manageable. As our demand for this technology increases, so does the need for data centers. However, these hyperscalers may also use incredible amounts of electricity and water for cooling their servers, while their true economic impact is largely unstudied.”

Hornback, Rep. Boles announce campaigns for Corporation Commission

Two Republicans have announced their candidacies for the Corporation Commission seat currently held by Todd Hiett (R): current State Rep. Brad Boles (R-Marlow) and two-time candidate Justin Hornback. Hornback finished 3rd in the 2022 GOP primary with 20.4% (narrowly missing a runoff with eventual winner Dana Murphy) and placed 2nd in the 2024 GOP primary with 28.7%. In the middle of his fourth legislative term, Boles has held the House District 51 seat since winning a special election in 2018 (he has not faced a challenger since).

Both candidates' press release announcements are below:

Endorsements and Recommendations for the General Election

Tuesday, November 5th, is the Oklahoma General Election, and voters all across the state will be heading to the polls to decide who will hold elected offices for the next two to six years (depending on the position). Below are a few of my voting picks. I know I'm just a lowly blogger, but hopefully the information in this post will be helpful with your voting plans.

If you don't know where to vote, or want to see your sample ballot, use this helpful link from the Oklahoma State Election Board to find out. Early voting continues today (Saturday, Nov. 2nd), from 8am to 2pm, at these locations. Election day voting is 7am to 7pm at your polling place.

Attorney Stephen Jones joins Supreme Court effort against Corp. Commish Hiett

Attorney Stephen Jones Joins Supreme Court Effort Against OCC’s Todd Hiett

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 28th) – Three Oklahoma lawmakers say that legal legend Stephen Jones will argue on behalf of their petition against Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett, according to a notice filed at the Oklahoma Supreme Court on Friday. 

Legislators respond to Supreme Court request in Hiett case

Legislators Respond to Supreme Court Request in Hiett Case

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 15th) – Reps. Tom Gann, R-Inola, Kevin West, R-Moore, and Rick West, R-Heavener, today issued statements regarding an Oklahoma Supreme Court request for oral arguments in their case against Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett.

"On Monday, the Oklahoma Supreme Court changed its position and took the extraordinary step of asking for oral arguments about our Petition for a Writ of Prohibition against Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett. We filed our case after allegations of sexual misconduct and public drunkenness were published, but Hiett refused to disqualify himself from Oklahoma Corporation Commission cases involving the victims and/or witnesses of his alleged criminal conduct. These utility cases are worth billions of dollars and affect millions of Oklahoma customers of Oklahoma Natural Gas, Oklahoma Gas & Electric, and Public Service Company of Oklahoma.

Legislators consider taking action after Corp. Commissioner Hiett’s assault, harassment accusations

L-R: State Rep. Kevin West and State. Rep Tom Gann

Legislators Consider Writ of Prohibition over Concerns about Hiett’s Impartiality

OKLAHOMA CITY (September 5th) – Reps. Kevin West, R-Moore, and Tom Gann, R-Inola, today issued statements regarding Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett, who has been accused of sexual molestation and public drunkenness. The two said they are considering filing a writ of prohibition against Hiett, asking the courts to intervene to protect the public interest.

2024 Primary Election Day: Picks, Links, and Resources

Tomorrow, Tuesday, is the Oklahoma Primary Election. If you haven't voted yet either by absentee or early in-person, you have from 7:00am to 7:00pm to cast your ballots. If you don't know where to vote, or want to see your sample ballot, use this helpful link from the Oklahoma State Election Board to find out.

Below are my thoughts on various races, as well as some links to additional resources about the primary candidates that you may find helpful.

2024 Primary Election: recommendations from BatesLine

Conservative Tulsa blogger Michael Bates of BatesLine.com has published his traditional election day voting card, with recommendations, links, and information about the elections on the June 18th primary ballot across the state. Somehow, this primary has snuck up on me, and I'm woefully behind on my own election postings.

Filled with great insights and well-documented research, Michael's excellent analysis and opinion is always a must-read.

Justin Hornback details candidacy for open Corporation Commission seat

I received the following press release from Justin Hornback, one of three Republicans seeking the open seat on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (being vacated by Bob Anthony due to term limits). The other two candidates are former Senate Pro Tem/former Secretary of State Brian Bingman, and energy journalist Russell Ray. A Libertarian and Democrat also filed for the race.

Justin Hornback Announces Candidacy for Oklahoma Corporation Commission 2024

Broken Arrow, OK -  May 16th, 2024 | Justin Hornback, a seasoned energy industry veteran with two decades of hands-on experience, formally announces his candidacy for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission in the upcoming 2024 elections. Hornback, who has spent 20 years immersed in the complexities and challenges of the energy sector, brings unique qualifications and a fresh perspective to the race. Setting himself apart from his opponents, Hornback positions himself as a worker from one of the largest industries regulated by the OCC, offering practical, first-hand knowledge rather than a traditional political background.

Small: Bad bill would hike utility costs for consumers

Bad bill would hike utility costs for consumers

By Jonathan Small

In recent years, Oklahoma has gone from having some of the most affordable electric rates in the nation to some of the most expensive.

In September 2022, the Alliance for Electrical Restructuring in Oklahoma showed that electricity rates surged by 49 percent from June 2021 to June 2022, bumping Oklahoma from having the most affordable electricity rates in the nation to having the 18th-highest costs.

Given that trend, you would think Oklahoma lawmakers would be working to lower costs.

Instead, a measure that could further drive up electricity rates has advanced from the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Small: Anti-ESG law having impact

Anti-ESG law having impact

By Jonathan Small

In recent years, state lawmakers voted to prevent state funds from being invested by entities that boycott energy production through “Environmental Social Governance” (ESG) policies.

The goal was two-fold. First, the law would keep Oklahoma taxpayer money from being used to harm the overall state economy, which remains heavily dependent on oil-and-gas production. Second, it would maximize the return on state pension fund investments, benefitting retirees.

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.

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.”

Election Results Map: U.S. Senate, other statewide races

Earlier this week, I update my long-running Election Results Maps series with a post looking at the 2022 Oklahoma general election races for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Superintendent. In this post, we'll cover the remaining statewide partisan races.

Overall, it was a Republican romp.

Remember: when it actually mattered, Kim David killed abortion ban

Artwork by T. Russell Hunter

State Sen. Kim David is the Republican nominee for Corporation Commissioner. Her record on tax and fiscal policy is abysmal (bodes well for being a rubber-stamp to utility price hikes, right?)

There's one other thing to know about Kim David.

Gov. Stitt endorses Kim David in Corporation Commission runoff

I would like to point out that Kim David has one of the worst records on tax hikes. 

Governor Stitt endorses Kim David for Corporation Commissioner

Says she is a conservative leader with a strong track record

Oklahoma City: Kim David announced today that Governor Kevin Stitt has endorsed her run for Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner.

Just The Facts: Candidate Voting Records on 2016-2018 Tax Hikes

There are a number of current or former state legislators running for higher office, and I wanted to do a quick post on their voting records from the 2016-2018 tax hike spree that Governor Mary Fallin and the GOP-led legislature went on. I already posted about how horrible State Rep. Avery Frix's voting record is ('Fiscal Failure Frix, the worst choice for conservatives in CD2'), so here are the facts about the others.

So, without further ado, Just The Facts: Legislative Voting Records on Major Tax and Fee Increases, 2016-2018.

Green means they voted for the measure (not good, in this case), Red means they voted against the measure (a good conservative vote), Gray means they missed the vote, and blank means they were not eligible to vote (in the case of Reps. Frix and Derby they were not in office; in other cases the bill either did not receive a hearing in that legislative chamber or the member was not on the committee where a vote took place).

The following six candidates are running for the 2nd Congressional District:

Click to view larger

Former State Rep. John Bennett has claimed that he never voted for a tax increase, but that is absolutely not true, as you can see from the above graphic. In 2016, he did not vote with the conservative core caucus on any of these tax/fee increase measures.

Kim David announces campaign for Corporation Commissioner

David Running for Corporation Commissioner
Pledges strong, conservative leadership

Porter, Okla.: State Senator Kim David announced today that she is a candidate for Oklahoma Corporation Commission. 

“For the past decade, I’ve fought to ensure Oklahomans have reliable, affordable energy and strong infrastructure,” David said. “Serving on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission is the next step in continuing this important work while growing jobs and opportunities in our state.”

As a Republican leader in the Senate, David recently helped advance one of the body’s most conservative legislative agendas in the history of Oklahoma, which was then signed by Gov. Stitt.

A historic figure in Oklahoma politics, David is the first woman since statehood to be named majority leader of the Oklahoma State Senate. She is also the first woman to chair the Senate Appropriations Committee, and the first Republican woman to serve as majority whip.

David will seek to fill the seat of Commissioner Dana Murphy, who is retiring due to term limits.