The Latest in Oklahoma: September 19, 2025
A&A Advocates
Oklahoma County Commissioner Myles Davidson, facing sexual assault allegations, is being challenged in the 2026 election by Republican Wendy Jo Hampton, who is calling for his resignation. The allegations stem from a protective order request by a woman who accused Davidson of harassment and assault over a two-year period, which he denies. Davidson has refused to step down, though he recently gave up some leadership roles. Hampton is running on a platform of restoring integrity, transparency, and community-focused leadership.
Governor Kevin Stitt and Attorney General Gentner Drummond are clashing over a lawsuit involving ClassWallet, a vendor tied to the alleged misuse of $1.7 million in federal COVID-19 education funds. Stitt wants to continue the lawsuit, blaming the vendor, while Drummond argues the fault lies with state officials and has dismissed the case multiple times. Their feud has turned personal, with each accusing the other of ethical violations and political motives. A judge will consider a motion in November to disqualify Drummond from the case entirely.
Oklahoma is rapidly expanding its data center industry, but according to some, details about the companies involved and their resource usage remain hidden from the public. Officials cite confidentiality agreements and competitive concerns as reasons for withholding information on electricity and water consumption. Lawmakers and residents have raised concerns about transparency, especially in places like Stillwater and Tulsa where water usage could reach millions of gallons per day. As the industry grows, calls for accountability and public oversight are increasing.
The 2026 Oklahoma Speaker’s Ball is set for Saturday, January 24 at 5:00 p.m. at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, and sponsors are invited to join the celebration. Hosted by Speaker Kyle Hilbert, the evening features dinner, drinks, live music, and the chance to connect with state leaders. This year’s event supports Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight, which flies veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorials. It’s a night to honor service, leadership, and community.
Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, has been elected vice chair of The Energy Council, an international nonpartisan organization focused on energy policy. He was chosen during the Council’s annual meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, and will assume the chairmanship in 2026-2027. Archer, who has served on the Council’s Executive Committee since February, also chairs the Oklahoma House Energy Committee and represents House District 55.
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
“Charlie Kirk was a young, bold voice for truth and a faithful servant of Christ, stolen from us by a vile act of political violence,” Senator Shaner Jett said in a news release regarding filing legislation that would establish Kirk’s birthday as “Charlie Kirk Free Speech Day” in Oklahoma. “Now he stands before the Lord, hearing, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”