OK Democratic Party

<h2>Our Theory of Change</h2><h3>As Democrats we believe change happens when we work together, across differences, to create a shared vision for a better future and then actively work towards making that vision a reality.</h3><ul><li>Our theory of change is grounded in the belief that systemic change requires addressing root causes and engaging in intersectional work that tackles issues of equity and justice across a variety of domains.</li><li>We believe meaningful change comes from building relationships and engaging in community organizing and advocacy efforts that center the voices of those most impacted by the issues we seek to address. <img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/ff6785d4-4025-440a-9386-32759fe91935/ff6785d4-4025-440a-9386-32759fe91935.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3346%2C2176&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Our Young Democrats of Oklahoma worked with advocates across the state to successfully petition the state government to stop Julius Jones' execution." align="right" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Our Young Democrats of Oklahoma worked with advocates across the state to successfully petition the state government to stop Julius Jones' execution.</li><li>We recognize change is not linear. Setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but we are committed to persevering and adapting our approach as needed to achieve our goals.</li><li>We believe there is room for each and every one of us to help create change. We are committed to providing education, training, and support to empower our members to become effective advocates for justice and equity in their communities.</li></ul>

The Governor is coming to Oklahoma to help us fundraise for our State Candidates! Join the party!

<h3>Contribute now to support our campaign!</h3>

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There are so many ways to support progress!

These candidates need your time, donations, and vote!

State Senate Candidates

State Senate District 7

Jerry Donathan

State Senate District 11

Regina Goodwin

State Senate District 15

Elizabeth Foreman

State Senate District 21

Robin Fuxa

State Senate District 25

Karen Gaddis

State Senate District 33

Bob Willis

State Senate District 35

Jo Anna Dossett

State Senate District 39

Melissa Bryce

State Senate District 43

Sam Graefe

State Senate District 47

Erin Brewer

<a href="https://iwillvote.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Check if your registration is up to date</a>

Important 2024 Voting Dates &amp; Deadlines

Nov 5

Oct 31

Oct 21

Oct 11

Aug 27

Aug 22

Aug 12

Aug 2

Jun 18

Jun 13

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Local action has a lasting impact. Together we can create a brighter future for Oklahoma. Your involvement can transform our state, and help protect public education, improve access to quality healthcare, and increase job opportunities for all. When we unite and work towards our shared goals, we harness our collective strength to achieve meaningful change, right here at home.

Dozens of local organizations and leaders are standing together!

What the Party Can &amp; Can't Do

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The Party Can

The Party Can't

Privacy PolicyThis website is operated by the Oklahoma Democratic Party (“ODP”, “we” or “us”). This privacy policy (“Policy”) explains how personal information is collected, used, and disclosed by ODP with respect to your use of the websites such as this which are operated by ODP and which display this Policy (the “Sites”) so you can make an informed decision about using the Sites. We reserve the right to change the provisions of this Policy at any time. We will alert you that changes have been made by indicating on the Policy the date it was last updated. We encourage you to review this Policy from time to time to make sure that you understand how any personal information you provide will be used. What Is Personal Information?As used herein, the term “personal information” means information that specifically identifies an individual (such as a name, address, telephone number, mobile number, e-mail address, or credit card number) and information about that individual or his or her activities that is directly linked to personally identifiable information. Personal information does not include “aggregate” information, which is data we collect about the use of the Sites or about a group or category of services or users, from which individual identities or other personal information has been removed. This Policy in no way restricts or limits our collection and use of aggregate information. What Personal Information Do We Collect?Active Collection: Personal information may be collected in a number of ways when you visit our Sites. We collect certain information you voluntarily provide to us, such as when you create an account or a profile, make a donation, make a purchase, send us an email or sign up to receive email or text message updates, fill out a form, connect through a social feed, sign up to be a volunteer or host an event, request information, or apply for a job or internship.Such information may include personal information, such as your name, mailing address, email address, phone number, and credit card information. Personal and demographic information may also be collected if you provide such information in connection with creating a profile or group, leaving comments, posting blog comments or other content, sending an email or message to another user, or participating in any interactive forums or features on the Sites.In addition, from time to time we may collect demographic, contact or other personal information you provide in connection with your participation in surveys, contests, games, promotions, and other activities on the Sites.In addition, the Federal Election Commission (FEC) and Oklahoma Secretary of State may require us to collect personal information from donors. For example, the FEC requires us to collect (and disclose) the name, mailing address, occupation, and employer of all individuals whose donations exceed $200 per calendar year. Passive Collection: When you use the Sites, some information is also automatically collected, such as your Internet Protocol (IP) address, your operating system, the browser type, the address of a referring website, and your activity on our Sites. We treat this information as personal information if we combine it with or link it to any of the identifying information mentioned above. Otherwise, it is used in the aggregate only. We may also automatically collect certain information through the use of “cookies” or web beacons. Cookies are small data files stored on your hard drive at the request of a website. Among other things, cookies help us improve our Sites and your experience. We may also use cookies and other technologies to provide you with personalized online display advertising tailored to your interests. If we link cookies to any personally identifying information, we will treat this information as personal information. If you wish to block, erase, or be warned of cookies, please refer to your browser manufacturer to learn about these functions. However, if you choose to remove or reject cookies, this could affect certain features on our Sites. Web beacons are small, invisible graphic images that may be used on the Sites or in emails relating to the Sites to collect certain information and monitor user activity on the Sites. We may allow others to serve advertisements on our behalf across the Internet and to provide analytics services. These entities may use cookies, web beacons and other technologies to collect information about your use of the Services and other websites, including your IP address, web browser, pages viewed, time spent on pages, links clicked and conversion information. This information may be used by ODP and others to, among other things, analyze and track data, determine the popularity of certain content, deliver advertising and content targeted to your interests on our Services and other websites and better understand your online activity.&nbsp;&nbsp; How Do We Use the Personal Information We Collect?We use personal information collected through our Sites for the purposes described in this Policy or elsewhere on the Sites. For example, we may use personal information we collect:<ul><li>to provide the services, products, or information you request, and to process and complete such requests and any related transactions;</li><li>to send you confirmations, updates, alerts, and support and administrative messages and otherwise facilitate your use of, and our administration and operation of, the Sites;</li><li>to notify you about important changes to the Sites;</li><li>to send you newsletters and otherwise provide you with information or services you request or that we think will be of interest to you, such as sending you information to keep you informed about various campaigns, candidates, issues, events, resources, promotions, contests, products and services;</li><li>to help connect you with other supporters, and to solicit volunteers, donations and support for ODP and for candidates, issues and organizations that we support;</li><li>to remind you to send in your voter registration form and to vote;</li><li>to assist you in finding your registration information and polling location;</li><li>to contact you if other information is necessary under Federal election laws;</li><li>to request feedback and to otherwise contact you about your use of the Sites;</li><li>to respond to your emails, submissions, questions, comments, and requests and to provide customer service;</li><li>to monitor and analyze site usage and trends, and to personalize and improve the Site and our users’ experiences on the Site, such as providing ads, content, or features that match your profiles or interests, and to increase the Site’s functionality and user friendliness;</li><li>to serve ads, on this or other websites or media, based on the information you provide and the actions you take;</li><li>to notify and contact contest and sweepstakes entrants; and</li><li>for any other purpose for which the information was collected.</li></ul>We may store and process personal information in the United States and other countries. What Personal Information Do We Share With Third Parties?It is our policy not to share the personal information we collect from you through our Sites with third parties, except as described in this Policy or as otherwise disclosed on the Sites. For example, we may share personal information as follows:<ul><li>with vendors, consultants, and other service providers or volunteers who are engaged by or working with us and who need access to such information to carry out their work for us;</li><li>with candidates, organizations, groups or causes that we believe have similar political viewpoints, principles or objectives;</li><li>to report required information to the Federal Elections Commission or Oklahoma Secretary of State, including name, mailing address, occupation, and name of employers of individuals who contribute to ODP (for additional information, visit the FEC website at <a href="http://www.fec.gov" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">www.fec.gov</a>);</li><li>when you give us your consent to do so, including if we notify you on the Sites, that the information you provide will be shared in a particular manner and you provide such information;</li><li>when we believe in good faith that we are lawfully authorized or required to do so or that doing so is reasonably necessary or appropriate to comply with the law or legal processes or respond to lawful requests, claims or legal authorities, including responding to lawful subpoenas, warrants, or court orders;</li><li>when we believe in good faith that doing so is reasonably necessary or appropriate to respond to claims or to protect the rights, property, or safety of ODP, our users, our employees, our volunteers, copyright owners, third parties or the public, including without limitation to protect such parties from fraudulent, abusive, inappropriate, or unlawful activity or use of our Site;</li><li>to enforce or apply this Policy, our Terms of Use, or our other policies or agreements; and</li><li>in connection with, or during negotiations of, any merger, reorganization, acquisition, asset sale, financing or lending transaction or in any other situation where personal information may be disclosed or transferred as one of the assets of ODP.</li></ul>We are not responsible for the actions of any service providers or other third parties, nor are we responsible for any additional information you provide directly to any third parties, and we encourage you to become familiar with their privacy practices before disclosing information directly to any such parties. Nothing herein restricts the sharing of aggregated or anonymized information, which may be shared with third parties without your consent. Online Petitions: When you sign an online petition, you understand that such petition is public information and that we may make the petition, and your name, city, state, and any comments provided in connection therewith publicly available. In addition, we may provide such petitions or compilations thereof, including your comments, name, city, and state to national, state or local leaders, or to the press. Interactive Features: You understand that when you use the Sites, information you: post in your profile, blogs, forums and other interactive areas of the Sites, as well as any information you share with individuals through the Sites or share through social network sites, will be available to other users and, in some cases, may be publicly available. We recommend you be cautious about giving out personal information to others or sharing personal information in public or private online forums. We are not responsible for the actions of any third parties with whom you share personal information. In some cases, there may be privacy setting available regarding the information available to others, and we suggest you take time to familiarize yourself with these options and utilize these settings. Links to Other Websites: Our Sites may contain links to other websites. Any personal information you provide on the linked pages is provided directly to that third party and is subject to that third party’s privacy policy. This Policy does not apply to such linked sites, and we are not responsible for the content or privacy and security practices and policies of these websites or any other sites that are linked to from our Sites. We encourage you to learn about their privacy and security practices and policies before providing them with personal information. What Steps Do We Take To Protect Your Information Online?We take reasonable measures to protect your personal information in an effort to prevent loss, misuse, and unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. Please be aware, however, that despite our efforts, no security measures are perfect or impenetrable and no method of data transmission that can be guaranteed against any interception or other type of misuse. To protect the confidentiality of personal information, you must keep your password confidential and not disclose it to any other person. You are responsible for all uses of our websites by any person using your password. Please advise us immediately if you believe your password has been misused. What Choices Do You Have Regarding the Use of Your Information?You may “opt out” of receiving text messages, email updates and newsletters by following the instructions in those text messages and emails. Please note that we may still send you other types of emails, such as emails about your use of our Sites, or use information as otherwise described in this Policy, even if you opt out of receiving email updates and newsletters. Changes to information in your account does not affect information provided to others as set forth in this policy, including in connection with petitions or donations or that has been previously shared with like-minded candidates, organizations, groups or causes. SMSAll the above categories excludes text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties. Questions?If you have any questions about this Policy, please contact us at <a href="mailto:info@oklahomadems.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">info@oklahomadems.org</a>. SMS Terms &amp; ConditionsThere is no fee from Oklahoma Dems to receive text messages. Message and data rates may apply — this can be checked with your mobile service provider. Charges are billed and payable to your mobile service provider or deducted from your prepaid account. Consent is not a requirement for purchase.Data obtained from you in connection with this SMS service may include your mobile phone number, your carrier’s name and the date, time and content of your messages. We may use this information to contact you and provide the services you request from us. Alerts sent via SMS may not be delivered if the mobile phone is not in range of a transmission site, or if sufficient network capacity is not available at a particular time. Even within a coverage area, factors beyond the control of the wireless operator may interfere with message delivery, including the customer’s equipment, terrain, proximity to buildings, foliage, and weather. Wireless operators do not guarantee message delivery and will not be held liable for delayed or undelivered messages.For information on data collection and us, please read our full corporate Privacy Policy above.&nbsp;We will not be liable for any delays in the receipt of any SMS message as delivery is subject to effective transmission from your network operator.By subscribing to Oklahoma Dems alerts, the user consents to receive automated text messages from Oklahoma Dems. Recurring messages. Message &amp; data rates may apply.If you have any questions, text HELP to 79229 or contact us at <a href="mailto:txt@mcommons.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">txt@mcommons.com</a>. To stop receiving messages, text STOP to 79229.Updated 6.24.20

<h2>Website Updates</h2>Our website is being updated to improve your experience. If you can't find the information you're looking for, please don't hesitate to email us at support@okdemocrats.org

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Upcoming Events

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<h2>ODP Staff</h2>The Oklahoma Democratic Party Headquarters is located at 3815 N Santa Fe Ave., Suite 122, in Oklahoma City. Our office is staffed year-round by professionals in finance, communications, party affairs, training, data and targeting, to assist party officers, members, and candidates at all levels.

From t-shirts to tote bags, we've got it all!

Check out our Congressional Districts, Federations, &amp; Caucuses

Central Committee Members

<h5>Members of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Deme Bereolos Vice Chair | Khadija Goz Secretary | Emily Gamel

Congressional District 1

<h5>Members of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Rae Ann Wilson Vice Chair | Tom Brennan Secretary | Katie Hopper

Congressional District 2

<h5>Members of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Sarah Carnes Vice Chair | Jim Potts Secretary | Roger Mullins

Congressional District 3

<h5>Members of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Kimberly Eaton Vice Chair | Travis Darling Secretary | Charles Peaden

Congressional District 4

<h5>Members of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Christine Byrd Vice Chair | Ben Eisenberg Secretary | Dan Williams

Congressional District 5

<h5>Members of ODP Central Committee</h5>Rachel Morse Matthew Lucas Amber Jensen Joshua Harris-Till

Affirmative Action Committee

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Bettye Rector

Women's Federation

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Tate Freeman

Stonewall Federation

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | JeKia Harrison

Young Democrats of Oklahoma

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Rita Maxwell

Veterans' Committee

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Burlinda Radney

African-American Federation

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Juanita Sykes-Romo

LatinX Federation

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Vacant

Disability Federation

<h5>Member of ODP Central Committee</h5>Chair | Anastasia Pittman

Native American Federation

Our site is under construction. If you need help finding something, please send us a message.

<h2>Our Mission</h2>To elect democrats across the state of Oklahoma and to educate citizens about the cultural diversity, freedom and equality that the Oklahoma Democratic Party represents.Oklahoma Democrats are committed to putting the people of Oklahoma first by promoting the values and policies that advance the common good and expand opportunities for every resident of our state. Our values call upon us to make our state the best in the nation.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/f2b2d498-ff90-4e96-bae8-0cbce973c738/f2b2d498-ff90-4e96-bae8-0cbce973c738.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=30%2C130%2C2420%2C1652&amp;w=1500" alt="Protest sign that says &quot;Never above you, never below you, ALWAYS beside you.&quot;" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">

Get Involved

Our Central Committee members are volunteers.Can you spare some change to help them further our work?

CHair

Alicia Andrews

Vice Chair

Cory Williams

secretary

Nana Dankwa

Treasurer

Rachael Hunsaker

National Committeewoman

Kalyn Free

National Committeeman

David Walters

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Executive Committee

DNC Member

DLCC Member

PLEO

At Large Delegate

National CommitteeWoman

Convention delegates are at the heart of all decisions made at the 2024 Democratic National Convention. In addition to voting for the party’s presidential and vice presidential nominees, delegates will have an opportunity to vote on the party’s platform and resolutions, as well as the rules that govern the party. For more information or to sign up for updates from the national party and convention committee, please visit: <a href="https://demconvention.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">demconvention.com</a> or <a href="http://chicago2024.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">chicago2024.com</a>

<h2>Find out who's on your ballot</h2>Get ready for this election with more information on how to vote.

Chip-In for a better Oklahoma

Running for office was the most difficult and most rewarding thing I've done besides being a mother.Naomi Andrews

<h2>Ready to make a difference? Run for office!</h2>Forget what you think you know about running for office. If you’re a Democrat who is passionate about improving Oklahoma and committed to progressive values, you have what it takes – and we’re here to support you.Oklahoma Needs You. In these pivotal times, local leaders are essential. It doesn't matter if it’s your first time running , if you care about your community and want to see positive change, we want to help you succeed. Our goal is to build a bench of thoughtful leaders who can drive Oklahoma forward.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/4858144f-8074-4c78-a1af-85a08bde7a3c/4858144f-8074-4c78-a1af-85a08bde7a3c.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2878%2C1778&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Shykira Smith is a candidate for State House District 63" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Shykira Smith is a candidate for State House District 63We’re seeking candidates who are:<ul><li>True Blue Democrats: We support those who champion public education, healthcare access, LGBTQ+ rights, criminal justice reform, workers’ rights, voting rights, and environmental sustainability. We believe in leaders who fight for fair wages, job creation, and community safety. <img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/3b860e33-291e-4d6b-8249-d92d00e51a5f/3b860e33-291e-4d6b-8249-d92d00e51a5f.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1440%2C1174&amp;w=1500" alt="Group of Chaunté Gilmore supporters standing with her at Pride holding her signs as well as rainbow and trans flags and red umbrellas." caption="Chaunté Gilmore is running for State House District 100" align="right" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Chaunté Gilmore is running for State House District 100</li><li>Just like you: We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, including teachers, healthcare workers, scientists, artists, and more. Our goal is to reflect the rich diversity of Oklahoma in our leadership. </li><li>Excited to meet voters: You are deeply involved in your community, whether through volunteering, organizing, mentoring, or local activism. We value candidates who have a strong connection to the areas they wish to serve.</li><li>Authentic Leaders: Your ability to connect with voters, both in person and online, is crucial. We’re looking for genuine, relatable individuals who are comfortable being themselves and communicating their vision clearly.</li></ul>Ready to get started? We’re dedicated to supporting passionate individuals ready to lead and make a difference in Oklahoma. If you’re considering running for office, reach out to us. Together, we can create meaningful change and build a brighter future for our state.

Are you ready to make a difference? Stay informed about volunteer opportunities, events, and initiatives in your community. Together, we can drive change and build a better Oklahoma for everyone.

Have questions or need assistance? We're here to help. Send us a message, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

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<h2>Help Us Help Our Candidates!</h2>Your donation to the party helps us offer events, training, and more to help our candidates get noticed. Building the party infrastructure doesn't just help the party, it means we have more resources to support candidates running for office.

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Candidates Past &amp; Present

Did you know the National Democratic Training Committee offers free online training for Democratic candidates?

<h2>Watch with Us!</h2>Join us virtually or in-person for the Presidential Debate on June 27th!

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Our Governing Documents

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Stay-Up-To-Date with everything happening in Oklahoma politics!

Read the Latest

Violence Has No Place in Political Discourse: A Call to ActionThe recent incident involving the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump serves as a stark reminder that violence has no place in our political discourse. This unfortunate event is not an isolated incident but rather a culmination of years of increasingly divisive rhetoric and a persistent failure to implement sensible gun laws."We did not get here by chance," said Alicia Andrews, Chairwoman of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. "This is the sad, yet predictable outcome of years of violent rhetoric coupled with a stubborn refusal to enact common sense gun laws."Democrats across the nation are unequivocal: ballots, not bullets, should determine our political course. We encourage our fellow Democrats not to dwell on the implications of recent events but to organize and mobilize. Now more than ever, we must determine what this means for our democracy and our future."It is crucial that we clarify," continued Andrews, "official Democrats do not endorse any form of violence, including the regrettable harm suffered by [brief reference to the incident, if applicable]. Just as we cannot control every voice on social media, Republicans face similar challenges within their ranks."This moment calls for unity among all Americans to denounce violence and demand action from our lawmakers. Specifically, we urge swift and decisive measures to address the proliferation of AR-style weapons and other firearms designed for combat.As we move forward, let us unite in condemning violence in all its forms and work together towards a safer, more peaceful future for our nation.

If you want to link an external news source, use the “link” icons on the sidebar. Anything linked externally will automatically be listed as “news” and any article you create on the site itself will automatically be listed as a “press release.”

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Chairwoman's Statement on Assassination Attempt

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOklahoma Democratic Party Chair Alicia Andrews Comments on Presidential Debate: President Biden to Champion Oklahomans' Future, While Trump Targets Working People's Freedoms and Privileges BillionairesTULSA, OK - June 27, 2024 - Ahead of tonight's presidential debate, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Alicia Andrews issued the following statement:"Tonight, Oklahomans will witness a stark contrast between President Biden's forward-looking vision for the future – focused on reducing costs, fostering high-quality jobs, and safeguarding our fundamental liberties – and convicted felon Donald Trump's agenda, which prioritizes tax cuts for his billionaire backers at the expense of hardworking families. Trump remains a severe and ongoing threat to Oklahoma families and all Americans, prioritizing his own interests over the integrity of our democracy. He seeks to impose a nationwide abortion ban, jeopardize access to affordable healthcare, and dismantle Social Security and Medicare."President Biden will underscore tonight that he is dedicated to serving America's working families, in sharp contrast to Trump's self-serving agenda."

Presidential Debate

<h4>Oklahoma Democratic Party Responds to Oklahoma Supreme Court Decision Blocking Religious Charter School </h4>[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE] – The Oklahoma Democratic Party expresses its strong support for today’s decision by the Oklahoma Supreme Court to block the establishment of the nation’s first religious charter school, St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School. This decision represents a critical defense of the principle of separation of church and state, which is fundamental to the foundational principles of our democracy. The proposal to fund St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School with taxpayer dollars as a charter school, while integrating religious instruction into its curriculum, raised serious concerns about the appropriate use of public funds and the potential for religious discrimination in admissions and teachings. By rejecting this proposal, the Oklahoma Supreme Court has upheld the integrity of our public education system and safeguarded the rights of all students and families in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Democratic Party recognizes our constitutional right to quality education options for all students, regardless of their background or beliefs. Public education serves as the cornerstone of our state, promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity. Allowing taxpayer funds to be diverted to religious institutions through the guise of charter schools would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the secular nature of our public education system. This decision also underscores the critical role of our judicial system in ensuring that constitutional principles are upheld and that the rights of all Oklahomans are protected. We commend the justices of the Oklahoma Supreme Court for their commitment to interpreting the law in a manner that respects both religious freedom and the Establishment Clause. While we understand that this decision may be subject to further legal challenges, potentially facing appeal. The Oklahoma Democratic Party remains steadfast in supporting the separation of church and state and preserving public education as a secular institution. As this case unfolds, the Oklahoma Democratic Party will continue to advocate for policies that strengthen our public education system and uphold the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution of the State of Oklahoma. Contact:Lauren CraigInterim Executive DirectorOklahoma Democratic Party405-427-3366<a href="mailto:lauren@okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">lauren@okdemocrats.org</a> About the Oklahoma Democratic Party:The Oklahoma Democratic Party is dedicated to promoting the values and principles of the Democratic Party in the state of Oklahoma. We strive to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Oklahomans through progressive policies and effective governance.

Religious School-Block

May CPI Report Reminds Oklahomans Biden is Fighting Inflation While Trump Pushes Price Hikes on Working Families Today, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair, Alicia Andrews released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Labor <a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">released</a> the latest consumer price index report showing inflation continues to cool under President Joe Biden while Donald Trump pushes an agenda economists warn could <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/06/trump-plan-supercharge-inflation/678566/#:~:text=In%20an%20upcoming%20analysis%20shared,than%20they%20would%20be%20otherwise." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">supercharge</a> inflation and raise prices on working families:&nbsp; “Today's CPI report shows progress as Biden works hard to cut costs for Oklahoma families. Meanwhile, Trump's plan could hike prices for everyday items while giving tax breaks to billionaires. Some experts even say Trump's plan might make it harder for the Federal Reserve to control prices without causing a recession. Come November, Oklahomans will see the choice: Biden and Harris fight for the middle class and lower costs, while Trump raises prices for working folks and favors his wealthy pals.”<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/de8c08de-8d35-4816-993c-b19659f2d2ec/de8c08de-8d35-4816-993c-b19659f2d2ec.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1080%2C1350&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">President Biden and Vice President Harris are delivering in Oklahoma and across the country while Trump pushes a disastrous economic agenda for working Oklahomans: <ul><li>While economic growth and employment remain strong, overall inflation is still down by about two-thirds from its peak.</li><li>The US economy added <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/may-2024-jobs-report-how-many-new-jobs-added-economy-analysis-rcna155594" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">272,000 jobs</a> last month — bringing the total number of jobs created since President Biden took office to a record 15.6 million jobs.&nbsp;</li><li>Trump had the worst jobs record of any president since the Great Depression and his plans could supercharge <a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/05/08/trump-biden-2024-economy-inflation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">inflation</a>.&nbsp;<ul><li>Trump plans to implement an across-the-board tariff that would raise the cost of goods and could cost the typical Oklahoma family an extra <a href="https://www.americanprogressaction.org/article/trumps-tariff-would-cost-the-typical-american-household-roughly-1500-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">$1,500 per year</a>.</li></ul></li><li>Trump and his MAGA allies want to give yet another tax windfall to big corporations, potentially exploding the national debt by another <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/06/09/biden-trump-taxes-election/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">$1 trillion</a>.</li></ul>

Democrats Deliver: Joe Biden Helps Families

Today, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Alicia Andrews released the following statement after the Supreme Court’s ruling on mifepristone:&nbsp; “The recent decision underscores the critical importance of November’s election for countless women in states across our nation. With Roe v. Wade overturned and reproductive freedoms stripped away by Donald Trump, the stakes have never been higher. What's more, Trump's administration seeks to push even harsher restrictions. Congress, under the influence of Trump's allies, is actively pursuing bills and budgets aimed at banning abortion and medication abortion entirely. Disturbingly, there are plans to impose a nationwide abortion ban if Trump secures another term, impacting every state, including Oklahoma.Oklahoma's existing laws on abortion create a landscape filled with confusion and contradiction, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary healthcare.A continuation of Trump's presidency promises further limitations on healthcare access and personal freedoms, particularly for women. To safeguard reproductive rights, it's imperative to support the reelection of President Biden and Vice President Harris in November.” Trump will stop at nothing to fulfill his radical goal of ripping away reproductive freedom for every single woman across America: <ul><li>Trump has <a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-says-he-will-support-national-ban-on-abortions-around-15-weeks-of-pregnancy#:~:text=weeks%2Dof%2Dpregnancy-,Trump%20says%20he%20will%20support%20national%20ban,around%2015%20weeks%20of%20pregnancy&amp;text=NEW%20YORK%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Donald,specific%20limit%20on%20the%20procedure." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">endorsed</a> a national abortion ban and <a href="https://x.com/BidenHQ/status/1778897934844559451" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">supports</a> the extreme abortion bans that states have enacted since he overturned Roe v. Wade, including <a href="https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/04/donald-trump-abortion-prosecutions/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">bans</a> that allow states to prosecute women who have an abortion.</li><li>Trump’s allies have published plans to ban abortion nationwide – <a href="https://www.vox.com/abortion/351678/the-comstock-act-the-long-dead-law-trump-could-use-to-ban-abortion-explained" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">without the help of Congress or the courts</a>. </li><li>In fact, he <a href="https://x.com/BidenHQ/status/1778897934844559451" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">thinks</a> that cruel abortion bans across the country are ‘working very brilliantly’ as women are denied critical and lifesaving care. </li><li>Trump has <a href="https://x.com/BidenHQ/status/1792925742885372172" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">left</a> the door wide open for restricting access to contraception, including emergency contraception.</li><li>Trump will <a href="https://x.com/MaeveReston/status/1672771243005874178" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">appoint</a> more anti-choice judges and justices to the bench – just as he appointed the justices who overturned Roe v. Wade.</li></ul><img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/120b49f6-3f5e-43a6-8404-1955e84df52b/120b49f6-3f5e-43a6-8404-1955e84df52b.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=4&amp;con=8&amp;sat=16&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2846%2C1728&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed"> While Trump and MAGA Republicans are working to ban access to contraception and abortion nationwide, President Biden and Vice President Harris will protect a woman’s right to choose: <ul><li><a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/3824124-biden-calls-on-congress-to-protect-abortion-on-roe-anniversary/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Calling</a> on Congress to codify the protections of Roe into law, restoring rights women relied on for nearly 50 years. </li><li><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/03/01/statement-from-vice-president-kamala-harris-on-access-to-medication-abortion-through-major-retail-pharmacies/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Standing</a> by the FDA’s evidence-based approval of mifepristone and defending&nbsp; the FDA’s independent, expert authority to review, approve, and regulate a wide range of prescription drugs.</li></ul> <ul><li><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/06/23/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-highlights-commitment-to-defending-reproductive-rights-and-actions-to-protect-access-to-reproductive-health-care-one-year-after-overturning-of-roe-v-wade/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Fighting</a> to ensure access to emergency medical care. </li><li>Strengthening <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/04/12/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-actions-to-protect-patient-privacy-at-the-third-meeting-of-the-task-force-on-reproductive-healthcare-access/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">patient privacy</a> and access to <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Health/biden-administration-new-steps-protect-contraceptives-abortion-medication/story?id=106562383" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">contraception</a>. </li></ul>Supporting a woman’s right to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/03/politics/joe-biden-abortion-executive-order/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">travel</a> for medical care.

Oklahoma Democrats Slam Efforts to Ban Abortion

OKLAHOMA CITY, APRIL 15, 2024 – This Tax Day, while Trump and MAGA Republicans continue to push handouts for the wealthy and big corporations, the Oklahoma Democratic Party released the following statement: “While Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans side with the wealthy and big corporations, President Biden is fighting to make the tax code fairer for Oklahoma families. President Biden is cutting taxes for Oklahoma families and workers, making corporations and the uber-wealthy pay their fair share, and ensuring billionaires can’t cheat on their taxes at the expense of hardworking taxpayers. In sharp contrast, Trump wants to cut taxes for the wealthiest corporations and billionaires while leaving Oklahoma families behind. From raising costs for working people to cutting Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act, Trump wants to make it harder for everyday Oklahomans to get ahead. This November, Oklahoma voters will reject Trump and MAGA Republicans’ failed trickle-down agenda and send President Biden and Vice President Harris back to the White House to fight for working families and ensure corporations and billionaires pay their fair share.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/9303773c-0e3e-438c-b28c-2745229aa4da/9303773c-0e3e-438c-b28c-2745229aa4da.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C970%2C434&amp;w=1500" alt="Form 1040 with a pile of cash and a calculator" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"> MAGA Republicans want to expand Trump’s extreme tax scam to give handouts to the wealthy and big corporations and raise costs on middle-class Oklahoma families by: <ul><li>Making Trump’s extreme tax scam cuts permanent, which would result in an average tax cut for the wealthiest .01 percent of Americans 100 times more than the tax cut for lower- and middle-income Oklahoma. In 2020 alone, Trump’s tax cuts gave the wealthiest 1 percent of Oklahomans an average of $44,150 in tax cuts while the poorest Oklahomans received an average tax cut of $50.</li><li>Giving an additional $600 billion in giveaways to giant corporations — on top of the Trump tax cuts.</li><li>Blocking President Biden’s tax reforms, including his global minimum tax agreement, and reversing President Biden’s tax minimums on billion-dollar corporations and his tax on stock buybacks, which would result in low taxes on corporations.</li><li>Making it easier for the wealthy and big corporations to cheat on their taxes by eliminating the Inflation Reduction Act’s investment in the IRS.</li><li>Cutting Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.</li></ul>

Trump’s Tax Scam Hurts Families &amp; Gives Handouts to Billionaires

OKLAHOMA CITY, MARCH 13, 2024 – Enid residents and Democrats demonstrate the power of working together as a community to confront white nationalism and extremism in their city. The Oklahoma Democratic Party supports the recall election of Judd Blevins, taking place April 2nd.It was 2017 on the University of Virginia campus when national neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups met for a night of hatred, and Judd Blevins, now an Enid, Oklahoma Councilman in Ward 1, is seen holding a tiki torch and marching with the angry mob on the campus.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/6063a735-3190-44d1-b064-00af94b45ad1/6063a735-3190-44d1-b064-00af94b45ad1.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2396%2C1546&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Connie Vickers and Nancy Presnall hold photographic evidence of Blevins' participation in the 2017 Neo-Nazi march." align="center" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Connie Vickers and Nancy Presnall hold photographic evidence of Blevins' participation in the 2017 Neo-Nazi march.This was unacceptable to many Enid residents who knew of Blevins’s ties to neo-Nazism once he decided to run. However, he convinced voters to elect him using his military record and claims that he wasn’t the one in the photos.“As soon as the election was over and the Nazi had won, we set out to determine how we could legally remove him,” commented Nancy Presnall, Garfield County Democratic Party Chair. “We waited the required six (6) months and then set about to start a recall petition. We did give Blevins the opportunity to denounce his involvement in white supremacy, but he refused, so we proceeded with the petition. We got 350 signatures, passing the needed 243. Once submitted and vetted, the recall election was scheduled.”Through local involvement and grassroots efforts, a community came together to make a difference, and the Oklahoma Democratic Party congratulates Nancy Presnall, Connie Vickers, and the residents of Enid, Oklahoma, for their dedication to ousting white nationalism and extremism in our state.###For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at <a href="http://okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">okdemocrats.org</a>, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.

Grassroots Efforts Pay Off in Enid, Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY, — FEBRUARY 20, 2024 – Oklahoma continues to make heartbreaking history. This time, the rhetoric coming from state leadership has contributed to the death of a student.For the last five (5) years, the state legislature has presented more and more discriminatory bills aimed at children. These bills range from depriving children of the representation that comprehensive history would provide to denying children of their gender identity and beyond. The Superintendent of Public Instruction has added a new level of vitriol to the conversation.An Owasso student died following a beating in a school restroom. A teacher broke up the fight, and the student was unable to leave the restroom without assistance, and yet, no authorities were summoned. No ambulance, no police.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/d881b1ce-1567-47c7-a04a-7e99c7503f17/d881b1ce-1567-47c7-a04a-7e99c7503f17.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C907%2C430&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base">The child left the school with their guardian, who called the police to the hospital where the child was being treated for injuries sustained while at school. The child died the next day as a result of the beating. This child was non-binary.This incident happened more than ten days ago, and the Superintendent of Public Instruction has yet to issue a statement. One wonders, with skepticism, if it is because he is developing a safety plan. We certainly hope that the silence is not because the student in question was non-binary.Non-binary students are students. Children, no matter their gender identity, religious affiliation, or participation in sports, should be safe on school grounds during the school hour. This child died at the hands of other children; children who have heard about these dangerous bills on television, on social media, and perhaps at the dinner table. We have to learn the lesson that political rhetoric has consequences.“No student should ever have to worry about the safety of going to school. Unfortunately, in our state, there are many reasons for that fear. Teaching children to love their neighbor used to be the southern way; now our leaders call it woke. Teaching children how to regulate their emotions? Our leaders denounced that too. History is clear, when leaders spread hate; it’s reflected in our communities. Over and over again, the examples through time are endless. I’m sure Ryan Walters might find a few in his old lesson plans. Unfortunately, because our leaders seem unwilling to regulate their emotions; one life has ended and many are forever changed,” stated Tate Freeman, President of the Stonewall Federation of Democrats.Oklahoma’s Superintendent of Public Instruction has demonstrated that he is more than willing to weigh in on other, less important issues, where is his comment about this deceased child? Where is his humanity? We’ll wait.###For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at <a href="http://okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">okdemocrats.org</a>, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.

Oklahoma Democrats Demand Response from Superintendent

OKLAHOMA CITY, — FEBRUARY 19, 2024 – What we learned from the special election race in House District 39, a district cut decidedly Republican, is that our candidates carry winning messages. Support for local public schools and opposition to Superintendent Ryan Walters played major roles in this race.“I am incredibly proud of the work of Regan Raff, her team, and the countless volunteers who made this such a close race. Tuesday’s results show that when Democrats run campaigns focused on grassroots mobilization, we build momentum. The truth is, when voters hear what our candidates stand for we gain ground” stated Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Alicia Andrews.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/2534b299-a778-41c1-967b-44b829a53804/2534b299-a778-41c1-967b-44b829a53804.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=2&amp;con=4&amp;sat=16&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1080%2C1080&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="An overcast day couldn't stop Madison Horn's team from knocking doors with Regan Raff" align="center" alignwidth="32.5" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">An overcast day couldn't stop Madison Horn's team from knocking doors with Regan Raff“Through a combination of effective messaging, qualified, quality candidates and dedicated super volunteers, we are seeing a national trend in elections across the nation where Republicans are slowly losing their foothold and their majority. Oklahoma Democrats are following this trend, Larry Bush and Regan Raff were quality candidates that motivated the electorates in recent special elections and performed better than expected.“Step by step, we can level out from a 13-year-long Republican Super-Majority at the capitol. We must stay the course and keep moving forward,” concluded Andrews.###

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Oklahoma Democrats Move the Needle

OKLAHOMA CITY, — FEBRUARY 5, 2024 – Governor Kevin Stitt wants to make Oklahoma the business headquarters of the world with corporate welfare and big business incentives at the expense of everyday tax-paying citizens. Stitt calls for: “…not more taxes, but more taxpayers” in his address, putting all the burden on individuals while not increasing taxes on his big business friends. His desire to cut income taxes to zero with no plan to pay for core services already stretched to their limit is reckless and poor management of our state’s economy.Oklahoma Democratic Party supports the Minority House Caucus and their legislative priorities, three of which are:<ul><li>Investing in Public Education: Keeping Public Dollars in Public Schools, not Charter and Private Schools that leave low-income and rural students behind.</li><li>End of the State Grocery Tax for working Oklahoman families.</li><li>Increasing access to Affordable and Quality Childcare.</li></ul><img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/4c488331-c7ff-44f1-a057-b24dad8b2b95/4c488331-c7ff-44f1-a057-b24dad8b2b95.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2048%2C1365&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Oklahoma House Democratic Caucus Leadership Team" align="center" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Oklahoma House Democratic Caucus Leadership TeamAdditionally, Stitt wants to defund public education in rural Oklahoma in the name of parent’s choice. Once again, Stitt talks about supporting public education right out of the gate of his address. Yet, he focuses on implementing more charter schools, calling for: “…more high performing charter schools…especially in areas with poor performing public schools.” Stitt isn’t interested in improving public education.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/05638be8-ecc8-4bc2-8dc5-d5aa585cb15f/05638be8-ecc8-4bc2-8dc5-d5aa585cb15f.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1200%2C1255&amp;w=1500" alt="Rep. Trish Hanson" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="32.5" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">“We deserve as Oklahomans, paychecks that stretch further each month. We deserve quality Public Schools in every zip code. We deserve access to higher ed and jobs that are as diverse as our population, and to value the diversity we all bring. We deserve to be able to make our own health decisions and retain bodily autonomy for roughly 50% of the Oklahomans in this state.”Rep. Trish Ranson | Oklahoma House District 34###For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at <a href="http://okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">okdemocrats.org</a>, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.

Oklahoma Democrats Respond to State of the State

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, — JANUARY 16, 2023 – Promoting religious freedom contributes to a diverse and tolerant society where individuals can coexist peacefully, respecting each other’s beliefs and practices. But what is happening in practice versus theory here in Oklahoma?“Religious freedom is a fundamental human right that encompasses the right for all of us to practice or not practice, worship, and observe one’s religion or belief system without interference or coercion,” said Alicia Andrews, Chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. “This means any religion, not one specific religion pushed by a majority, particularly by our superintendent of public instruction,” continued Andrews.“People have the right to be free from government-imposed or social pressures related to religious beliefs and practices. It’s almost unimaginable that Ryan Walters believes that our public school students should be subject to religious coercion, discrimination, or undue influence from religious indoctrination in our public schools. This is not in line with our country’s Constitution.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/524ff9e5-68b7-4565-b9b3-fb0a2e781884/97643dfd-4318-4168-8b7d-7f1bb81af935.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=16&amp;con=24&amp;sat=28&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C2724&amp;w=1500" alt="Symbols of World Religions" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">“In a state that claims to uphold religious freedom, we have leaders who do not believe that parents and students should have the autonomy to make choices about their beliefs or non-beliefs without having to adhere to a specific religious ideology against their will in a public school setting,” continued Andrews.Andrews sees this as a cautionary tale of things to come unless Oklahomans act. “How has this state elected people who think religious freedom means the religion they practice that should be pushed into our public school system and onto students of varying backgrounds? As we recognize today’s Religious Freedom Day, we should consider what we do as a state moving forward when electing officials who ignore our Constitution and our basic human rights to practice or not practice as we want as individuals,” concluded Andrews.###For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at <a href="http://okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">okdemocrats.org</a>, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.

What Does Religious Freedom Mean?

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/58bde3f9-1a4a-4b0f-a1da-d25c9611ba6c/58bde3f9-1a4a-4b0f-a1da-d25c9611ba6c.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2402%2C816&amp;w=1500" alt="War ravaged Gaza with Smoke" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base">THE CHAIR OF THE OKLAHOMA DEMOCRATIC PARTY ISSUES STATEMENT ON GAZA WARIn times of global strife and conflict, particularly in the heart-wrenching situation unfolding in Gaza and Palestine, our principles as Democrats and humanitarians are tested. This letter is an earnest attempt to articulate my stance on this issue — a stance shaped by both empathy and a commitment to factual understanding.First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge the suffering that pervades both sides of this conflict. The loss of innocent lives, including children, is a tragedy that deeply affects us all, irrespective of our backgrounds. While I may not have experienced such profound agony personally, I stand in solidarity with those who endure this pain and loss. This conflict is not black and white; it involves layers of historical, political, and socio-cultural complexities that defy simple solutions or narratives.As members of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, and more broadly as citizens engaged in the democratic process, it is essential to approach such global issues with a balanced perspective. Our reactions should be rooted in a comprehensive understanding of the facts, avoiding the pitfalls of emotionally charged rhetoric that often oversimplifies and polarizes, thus my delayed response.In this context, I also want to address our political landscape and the upcoming elections. While it is easy to become disillusioned with politics, especially in light of such international crises, our democratic duty remains crucial. Our choices in the voting booth have profound implications, not just domestically, but also in how America engages with the world.My continued support for the Biden administration isn’t taken lightly. My reasons extend beyond the very real threat that is Donald Trump. President Joe Biden has demonstrated the capacity for evolution in thought and policy. The president ran as a moderate. Arguably, he has presided over the most progressive administration since Lyndon B. Johnson. This evolution came as the president was presented with new information and heeded the counsel of colleagues and advisors. Though the war in Gaza has lasted longer and has become more gruesome than is tolerable, we have watched as the president has moved further and further away from Prime Minister Netanyahu.It is imperative to acknowledge the actions of Prime Minister Netanyahu and the historic agreements that must be negotiated. When the loss of civilian life overshadows the stated objectives of any operation, it is a clear indicator that the Biden administration must reassess and take a firmer stance. In this light, I urge the President to adopt a more definitive position in demanding that Israel refrains from actions that are war crimes or violations of international humanitarian laws.As we navigate these troubled waters, let us do so with an open heart and an informed mind. Let us not shy away from difficult conversations, nor allow our disillusionment with certain aspects of politics to deter us from our democratic responsibilities. Our engagement and choices in the political arena have the power to influence not just our immediate environment but the global stage as well.I implore all of us to continue our pursuit of justice and peace, both locally and globally, with the wisdom and compassion that define us as Democrats.Sincerely,&nbsp;Alicia Andrews, ChairOklahoma Democratic PartyFor more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at <a href="http://okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">okdemocrats.org</a>, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.

Statement on Gaza

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/b7b32f86-9d88-4109-9f34-0176c332841f/fb112c20-0270-457d-95d2-f9b51b357c1c/fb112c20-0270-457d-95d2-f9b51b357c1c.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2400%2C994&amp;w=1500" alt="Attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base">OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, — JANUARY 5, 2023 – Today, ahead of the three-year anniversary of Donald Trump inciting a violent insurrection on the United States Capitol, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Alicia Andrews released the following statement.“Three years ago, Oklahomans watched as Donald Trump encouraged a violent mob to storm the United States Capitol and attack law enforcement in an attempt to remain in power. Trump’s continuous assaults on the foundations of our country drove our democracy to the brink of ruin on January 6, 2021, and he’s threatening to throw our nation into chaos once again. Oklahomans value our democracy and freedoms and want them strengthened, not attacked. Oklahoma voters know how high the stakes are this November and will stand with President Biden and Vice President Harris as they fight to defend freedom and democracy for all of us.”###For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at <a href="http://okdemocrats.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">okdemocrats.org</a>, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.

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