The Latest in Oklahoma: July 18, 2025
A&A Advocates
Seven candidates have announced campaigns for Oklahoma governor ahead of the 2026 election, including six Republicans and one Democrat. The Republican field includes former House Speaker Charles McCall, Attorney General Gentner Drummond, former state senators Mike Mazzei and Jake Merrick, entrepreneur Leisa Mitchell Haynes, and small business owner Kenneth Sturgell. House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson is the sole Democrat in the race. The primary election is set for June 16, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026, as Governor Kevin Stitt’s term ends in January 2027.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court has issued a temporary stay on Senate Bill 632, which aimed to create a new business court system in the state. The court took this action after a lawsuit challenged the law’s constitutionality, particularly the appointment process for judges and the high filing fees. Supporters, including Governor Kevin Stitt, argue the courts would attract business to Oklahoma, while opponents claim the law undermines judicial accountability and public access. The case will proceed under the court’s original jurisdiction, with a final decision pending.
President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act eliminates key federal incentives for renewable energy, raising concerns among Oklahoma clean energy advocates. The legislation phases out tax credits for wind, solar, electric vehicles, and home energy improvements—threatening the state’s progress in renewable development, which currently supplies over 40% of Oklahoma’s electricity. Critics argue the policy shift destabilizes investment, while supporters, including the oil and gas industry, praise it for boosting fossil fuel development. Existing projects may still qualify for credits through 2027, but future growth in solar and wind is expected to slow significantly.
Annette Jacobi, executive director of the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth, is raising concerns about how federal cuts included in President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act could severely impact children and families across the state. The legislation reduces funding for Medicaid and SNAP, two critical programs supporting low-income households. Jacobi warns that with shrinking federal support and flat state budgets, Oklahoma may struggle to meet the growing needs of its most vulnerable populations.
Interim studies
Click to view the House and Senate interim studies.
Upcoming Deadlines
07/25/25: Deadline for the Speaker to announce approved House studies.
10/31/25: Deadline for Senate studies to be completed.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Funk Sr., a man whose generosity and vision touched countless lives, including my own,” Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert said in a statement reacting to the news of Bob Funk Sr.’s passing. “As an FFA member, I was honored to receive a college scholarship from him through his generosity with the Oklahoma Youth Expo, an investment in my future that I will never forget. Funk was passionate about education and workforce development, and he dedicated his life to connecting people with opportunity, helping families find stability and hope through meaningful work. Oklahoma is a better place today thanks to Bob Funk and he will be truly missed.”