Constitution 101: Privileges, Immunities and Debate

Over the years, I have come to realize that many of my students know little about the U.S. Constitution. And even as I speak to older generations, I realize parts of the Constitution are somewhat foreign to them as well.

Under The Dome

It’s time to end the government shutdownCongressman Tom Cole was right: government shutdowns don’t work.The result of a never-ending political feud between Republicans and Democrats, shutdowns, Cole said, are inappropriate, costly, and an ineffective political tactic that hurt the American public,...

From Smith to Friedman: What great economists would say about Oklahoma's proposed minimum wage hike

In June 2026, Oklahoma voters will decide on State Question 832. If passed, the minimum wage in Oklahoma will go from the federal minimum wage of $7.25 to $15 by 2029, more than doubling minimum wage wages over the next three years.

Under The Dome

For the first time in more than two years, Oklahomans are getting the chance to catch their breath.Instead of another controversy or whirlwind of turmoil from the state Department of Education, the state’s new school superintendent is taking a thoughtful, commonsense approach to education issues.On...

How a hole and mule named Sal changed our world

I’ve got an old mule and her name is Sal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal.Two hundred years ago this week, the “Big Ditch” known as the Erie Canal began moving cargo between Albany and Buffalo, New York, and in the process, forever changed our nation.

Don’t sign SQ 837 petition: recreational marijuana

By Steve Fair A group seeking the legalization of recreational marijuana in Oklahoma is nearing the deadline to gather the 170,000 signatures needed to put State Question 837 on the ballo t.Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action claim legalizing pot for those over the age of 21 addresses...

Militia, Insurrection acts give Trump authority to protect Americans

One of the biggest differences between traveling abroad and traveling domestically is seeing armed soldiers at airports and on the streets in most other nations.

Under The Dome

Even before its birth as a state, Oklahoma has been home to what can only be described as robust political debate.Through the years, the issues have been lofty and the emotions intense.And still, the debate over issues and the ideas that impacted state government helped shape and mold many state...

Open primary voting and ending party choice? Not here.

Next year, Oklahomans will have the opportunity to go to the polls and basically decide if the Republican Party will still be allowed to choose its own candidates for state elections.While this is being touted as closed versus open primary elections, it is more complicated than that.As the U.S....

Rules for thee, but not for me

By Steve Fair The United States National Guard is a state-based military force that becomes part of the U.S. military reserves when activated for federal missions.Most National Guard members hold civilian jobs full-time while serving part-time in the Guard.From the nation's founding until the early...