Lifestyle & Opinions

Remembering our Heroes

Wed, 05/27/2020 - 5:00am

Over the course of my public career, I’ve taken part in dozens of Memorial Day ceremonies. I’ve listened to the solemn tributes paid to those who made the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives for our freedoms. I’ve heard stories of their valiant service and poignant memories shared by those who loved them. I’m always touched by the sadness that comes from wondering how life would be different had they continued to live among us.

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The price for freedom isn’t settled yet

Wed, 05/27/2020 - 5:00am

Last Sunday our nation observed Memorial Day in the midst of a global pandemic that has roiled the entire globe.

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Jobless Claims Break Records; Affects Families

Thu, 05/21/2020 - 12:00am

The way we all conduct business has changed due to COVID-19, with millions finding themselves without a stable income. Just last week, Oklahomans filed more than 68,000 jobless claims with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) during the week ending May 2.

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FY21 Budget Details

Thu, 05/21/2020 - 12:00am

The House in early May passed a $7.7 billion general appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2021. The governor first vetoed three of the appropriations bills that supported the budget. When those bills got overridden with votes in the House of 97-3, 95-5 and 94-4, he vetoed the entire budget. In what was perhaps the fastest veto override in state history, the House overrode his veto within hours of it being filed. The budget is now law.