Oklahoma Economy

In just 100 years, Oklahoma has deserved its the reputation as one of the best places in America to live, work and raise a family. We have the 8th lowest tax burden in the country and rank 6th overall in the ability of our citizens to pursue their dreams free from government red tape. Our communities are safe, our personal income is growing and in fact is outpacing the national average and more of our citizens are getting college degrees than ever before.

However, even with one of the lowest tax burdens in the country, and a skilled workforce, we will not continue to make strides if the groundwork for our public infrastructure is not firm. I believe that to make the future bright for all Oklahomans we must improve the condition of our roads and bridges, invest in education from early childhood to the post high school years, and make healthcare more affordable.

My Record

Roads and Bridges

As state senator, I reached across the aisle to build consensus for the Senate's 2020 Road and Bridge Plan, which was signed into law by Governor Henry. The Transportation Plan will repair a record number of bridges and reconstruct a record number of roads.

Education

I voted for and helped pass childhood education programs, enacted educational reforms that foster personal responsibility in the classroom and recognized our teachers by voting to raise their compensation to the regional average.

Access to Higher Education

I voted for and helped pass the Oklahoma Higher Education Promise of Excellence Act to help more Oklahomans achieve an associate or college degree.

Health Insurance

I voted for and helped pass health insurance for all Oklahoma children and an innovative public/private partnership to help tens of thousands of working Oklahomans better afford private health insurance.

While I support needed economic reforms to keep our State competitive, my work is devoted to rebuilding our public infrastructure. Its the best way for Oklahoma to attract better paying jobs and allow an even better future for all Oklahomans these next 100 years.