Enid, OK – In his annual State of the State address, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt laid out a vision focused on tax cuts, education reform, and criminal justice changes, while also emphasizing the importance of preserving the “American dream.” The 35-minute speech, delivered at the state Capitol, proposed a number of policies aimed at making Oklahoma more business-friendly, reducing government spending, and addressing issues in the state’s correctional system.
Stitt’s address highlighted the need for tax relief, with a proposal to reduce both personal and corporate income taxes by 0.5%. The Governor urged lawmakers to pass his tax cuts despite concerns that the state is facing a $191 million shortfall in its budget this year. He also called for the creation of a “business court,” initiatives to promote energy production, and a fiscal “savings floor” of $4 billion to ensure Oklahoma’s financial stability in the future.
“Our goal is to ensure the American dream is alive and well,” Stitt said. “We need to look at policies that move us toward prosperity, not those that push it farther out of reach.” He underscored his commitment to education by advocating for legislation to make schools cellphone-free and eliminate virtual learning days, while also pushing for more internships and apprenticeships to help high school and college students graduate “career ready.”
On criminal justice reform, Stitt called for the abolition of “debtors’ prison,” referring to fines and court fees that he believes trap individuals in a cycle of incarceration. He argued that these fees contribute to higher recidivism rates and that eliminating them would offer second chances to those impacted by the justice system.
Despite these proposals, Stitt’s speech was met with resistance from some lawmakers, especially House Democrats. Minority Leader Cyndi Munson expressed concern that the Governor’s focus on federal issues, like supporting President Donald Trump’s border security measures, overshadowed more pressing concerns for Oklahoma families. “Right now, people are worried about the cost of groceries, rent, and gasoline, and our Governor seems focused on what’s happening in Washington, D.C., rather than here in Oklahoma,” Munson said.
Outside the Capitol, hundreds of protesters gathered to voice their opposition to Stitt’s policies. Signs reading “Immigrants Built America” and “Reject Hate” were displayed as demonstrators rallied for the rights of undocumented immigrants. The protests were particularly focused on Stitt’s stance on immigration, which critics argue undermines the American dream for those without legal status in the U.S.
“Immigrants are part of the American dream,” said Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt, who criticized Stitt for not being more inclusive in his remarks. “We need to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the opportunities that make this country great.”
Adding to the tension, State Superintendent Ryan Walters has been a vocal advocate for policies like immigration enforcement in schools and the placement of Bibles in classrooms—issues that have sparked considerable debate in the state. These positions were also part of the broader criticism leveled at the Governor’s speech by protestors and Democratic lawmakers alike.
Security was heightened inside and outside the Capitol, as the Governor’s remarks took place amid these protests. The increased presence of law enforcement was a clear signal of the ongoing tensions between the state government and some of Oklahoma’s residents.
In addition to policy proposals, Stitt announced plans to create a state-level version of the federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which will focus on streamlining government operations and cutting costs. The new agency, called DOGE-OK, will submit a report by the end of March outlining recommendations for fiscal reforms.
For now, Stitt’s vision for Oklahoma remains at the forefront of state politics, as he seeks to balance his focus on fiscal conservatism, energy development, and a business-friendly climate with the concerns of lawmakers and citizens who feel left behind by some of his proposals. As the legislative session continues, it remains to be seen how his agenda will fare in a state deeply divided on issues of immigration, education, and government efficiency.
