Journalist: Dylan Davis (OSU)
Late afternoon on Wednesday, the OIL lieutenant governor and governor candidates gathered
with representatives in the Oklahoma House of Representatives to give speeches for their campaigns.
Candidates for lieutenant governor include the current attorney general, Renner Howel, and Sen. Alaina
Whittington (OSU). Candidates for governor include Sen. Wesley Hurlbut (OSU), current Secretary of
State Tallie Tynes and current Lieutenant Governor Kylee Laginess.
Key policy positions in the lieutenant governor race focused on the OIL budget. Howell
specifically focused on continuing to produce cost-effective meals for delegate members throughout the
week. Howl believes that this is important for the position because keeping prices low for delegates, he
says, will be a “primary concern” of his leadership if elected. Whittington shared a similar sentiment in
her speech and advocated for a
In the governor’s race, Hurlburt’s speech focused on “reviving former OIL chapters” such as
Langston University and governing through ethical rule. Laginess’ speech focused on cost, much like the
lieutenant governor races. One proposal made by Laginess is to book the OIL hotel on the tentative date.
She said that this would work “9.5 times out of 10” and would save money in the long run. Finally, Tines
leaned on past successes within OIL and detailed how, through her work as secretary of state, OIL has
been able to collect dues and distribute resources on a timely and thorough basis.
After listening to the candidates for lieutenant governor, some voters are worried about the lack of
food options for delegates with dietary restrictions. Many with dietary restrictions have also voiced their
concerns about the lack of emphasis on this topic, as some believe that their lack of equality in food
choice is unfair.
In the governor’s race, all candidates are running on different messaging, thus a wider array of
concerns has arisen. One concern echoed throughout the chambers regards Laginess’ idea of booking on a tentative date. Voters worry that this could jeopardize the finances of future sessions. Another concern circulated among voters is the lack of specifics with Hurlburt’s plan to revive former OIL chapters.
With many questions still in the air, elections will begin tomorrow morning, and results will be
given at a later time, as voters will determine the next steps of OIL’s journey.