The Latest in Oklahoma: September 12, 2025
A&A Advocates
Governor Kevin Stitt has appointed Donelle Harder, David Ostrowe, and Dustin Hilliary to key roles as his administration enters its final stretch. Harder, a former communications director and policy advisor for Stitt, returns as Secretary of State after working in both public relations and energy. Ostrowe, a fast-food executive and former cabinet member focused on digital transformation, becomes Chief Operating Officer. Hilliary, co-CEO of a telecommunications firm and a current higher education regent, will serve as Senior Advisor. These appointments follow a series of recent resignations and are intended to reinforce Stitt’s agenda through the remainder of his term.
The Oklahoma Ethics Commission is reviewing a rule that currently requires political candidates to open a new bank account for each election cycle, even if they are seeking reelection. Rep. Judd Strom called the process confusing and potentially misleading. Several lawmakers have raised concerns, prompting the Commission to draft an advisory opinion and seek public feedback in November. The goal is to balance transparency with practicality for candidates.
Nvidia and Black Tech Street have launched a partnership in Tulsa to train 10,000 people in artificial intelligence, aiming to build one of the most AI-ready workforces in the U.S.The initiative, centered in Tulsa’s Greenwood District, is part of a broader plan to drive economic growth and innovation in Oklahoma. State leaders say the project will help create high-paying jobs and attract future tech startups. While no physical hub is planned yet, training programs will begin through Black Tech Street using Nvidia’s technology.
A new study suggests that Oklahoma’s experience with earthquake activity from wastewater injection can help prevent similar risks in future carbon storage projects.Researchers warn that injecting carbon dioxide underground could trigger seismic events if not done carefully, especially in geologically sensitive areas like the Arbuckle formation. The report emphasizes that public support for carbon storage depends on safety and transparency. Oklahoma lawmakers have already passed legislation to regulate such storage, aiming to attract economic investment while managing environmental risks.
Oklahoma County Commissioner Myles Davidson has requested to step down from his leadership roles amid allegations of sexual assault and harassment. A Norman woman accused Davidson of groping her, attempting to force sex during a work trip, and ongoing stalking and harassment since 2023. Davidson has denied all allegations through his attorney, and it remains unclear whether he held supervisory authority over the accuser. In response, the Board of County Commissioners is considering temporary leadership reassignments while the investigation continues.
Political analysts debate how much impact Governor Kevin Stitt’s endorsement could have on the 2026 Oklahoma gubernatorial race. Former House Speaker Charles McCall, widely seen as a strong contender and a likely recipient of Stitt’s support due to their shared policy goals, is working to raise his profile statewide. Though he is currently behind Attorney General Gentner Drummond in early polling, McCall has momentum, a solid legislative track record, and the most campaign cash on hand.
Interim Studies
The interim study period began on August 1, 2025 and will end November 6, 2025.
Click to view the House and Senate interim studies.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“We successfully launched this administration by bringing a fresh set of eyes from Oklahoma’s business community, and we will finish the same way. These three outstanding Oklahomans bring diverse strengths: Dustin’s trusted leadership and negotiation prowess, David’s operational acumen and Donelle’s strategic vision,” Gov. Stitt said in a press release regarding his new appointments. “Together, they elevate the capacity of my administration as we push forward on our agenda, and I am confident we can continue to deliver lasting results for the people of Oklahoma.”