Oklahoma Governor Acts to Curb PR Spending Controversy

Jun 18, 2024

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In response to recent revelations, Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma has issued an executive order aimed at curtailing wasteful public relations expenditures within state agencies. This action comes after investigations by NEWS.ORG 25 uncovered substantial sums of taxpayer money being funneled to a Washington D.C.-based firm for the promotion of State Superintendent Ryan Walters.

Governor Stitt Takes Action

Governor Stitt emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility, stating, The money we spend doesn’t belong to us – it belongs to Oklahoma taxpayers. The executive order, numbered 2024-12, specifically prohibits state agencies from engaging in sole source contracts with public relations, marketing, or communications firms without a competitive bidding process. This measure aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the expenditure of public funds.

Addressing Concerns and Implementing Reforms

The controversy arose when it was revealed that over $100,000 earmarked for education expenditures had been directed to out-of-state PR firms. These funds were purportedly utilized for promoting Superintendent Walters’s personal public relations initiatives, sparking public outcry and scrutiny.

Under the new directive, all contracts with PR vendors must undergo a minimum 30-day request for proposal process. The executive order also explicitly forbids the use of taxpayer dollars for self-promotion or for purposes unrelated to the core missions of state agencies.

Conclusion: Upholding Fiscal Integrity

Governor Stitt’s executive order marks a significant step towards ensuring responsible stewardship of public funds in Oklahoma. By mandating competitive bidding for PR contracts and prohibiting misuse of taxpayer money, the administration aims to safeguard transparency and fiscal integrity across state agencies.

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