Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt on States' Rights, Immigration Reform, and Republican Integrity

Upholding States' Rights

• 💡 Governor Stitt emphasized the National Governors Association's (NGA) role in bringing together governors from both parties, advocating for states' rights and limited federal government.
• 🎯 He clarified that the NGA could not facilitate a White House meeting that excluded any governors, highlighting the importance of state-federal relationships.
• 🔑 Stitt believes in state sovereignty, arguing that the president should not interfere in state matters where states have authority, such as the Colorado governor's decision on a state custody case.
• ⚖️ He views states as "laboratories of democracy," where different approaches can be tested, rejecting a "one-size-fits-all" federal approach.

Reforming Immigration Policy

• 🚀 Stitt advocates for state-controlled workforce permits to match employers with employees, suggesting three-year work permits for those with jobs and employer vouching.
• ⚠️ He warned that the disappearance of workers without legal status would be "devastating" for Oklahoma's economy and various industries across the country.
• ✅ Stitt differentiated between criminal immigrants, who should be deported, and those working and contributing, arguing against making children "criminals" in schools.
• 💬 He believes the immigration issue is over-politicized and that states should lead in finding practical solutions, rather than waiting for federal action.

Addressing Tribal Sovereignty

• ⚖️ Stitt expressed concerns about the McGirt Supreme Court decision, which he believes creates a system where individuals of different races face different tax obligations and criminal penalties in Oklahoma.
• 📌 He argued that applying reservation rules to Oklahoma, where the state funds infrastructure and services, would "tear our state apart" due to unequal contributions and rules.
• 💡 Stitt clarified his Cherokee heritage but stated his belief that people should not be divided based on race or receive special treatment.

Vision for the Republican Party

• 📈 Stitt called for Republicans to "get back to integrity," advocating for limited government, lower taxes, and unlocking the entrepreneurial spirit.
• 🚫 He criticized the politicization of the Department of Justice and inconsistent policy changes (like the Keystone pipeline), which deter investment and create uncertainty.
• 🎯 He believes the party should focus on core principles of free markets and entrepreneurship, rather than political pendulum swings.

Embracing American Diversity

• 🤝 Stitt highlighted the value of diverse perspectives and building relationships across political and cultural divides, citing his friendship with Maryland Governor Wes Moore.
• 🇺🇸 He emphasized that America is a "melting pot" and that its diversity is a strength, encouraging young people to pursue the American dream through hard work and education.
• 🧠 Stitt believes in a meritocracy, where opportunities are equal, but outcomes are not, and individuals should be rewarded for risk-taking and effort, not race.