Readers React to Trump’s Budget Bill
We are disappointed in Oklahoma’s Republican congressional members who voted for a federal budget bill that adds $3.8 trillion to the national debt while threatening funding for Medicaid and SNAP programs. Oklahoma is a poor state, and diverting tax dollars to billionaires rather than helping the poorest citizens will likely lead to increased state taxes to fund safety net programs. Oklahomans voted to expand Medicaid through the petition process, showing that healthcare is a priority. This spendthrift bill is a clear transfer of wealth from Oklahoma’s poor and middle class to the nation’s richest 1%.
― Jody Harlan & Tim Wagner, Yukon
Government Should Not Put Bibles in Public Schools
I was baptized and given a King James Bible, but I found it challenging to read through. It’s not the school’s place to distribute Bibles; children should be guided by their parents and ministers. Other religions could then demand equal time, potentially leading to the promotion of harmful ideologies. This action violates the Constitution’s separation of church and state. Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters must have an ulterior motive for spending $3 million on Bibles when most families already have them.
― Dr. David Brinker, Oklahoma City
Reflecting on Our Values
The hateful comments by Dillon Awes against gay people and Jews, masquerading as religious righteousness, are disheartening. Throughout my life, I’ve seen so-called “Family Values” proponents like Billy James Hargis and Jimmy Swaggart. The Jesus I studied wouldn’t condone such behavior. Jesus taught us to treat others with love, compassion, and understanding, not to judge or harm. What have we become when we allow such hatred?
― Jack Werner, Oklahoma City
Church Leader’s Misguided Views on LGBTQ+
Dillon Awes’ call for the execution of LGBTQ+ individuals is ignorant of the longstanding recognition by national psychiatric, psychological, medical, and social work associations that sexual orientation and gender identity are normal human characteristics. His outdated and harmful beliefs are unworthy of a functioning, educated person.
― Nathaniel Batchelder, Oklahoma City
Insurance Commissioner Addresses Homeowners’ Rates
Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready explains that his department doesn’t set homeowners’ insurance rates but ensures that filings are lawful and non-discriminatory. Oklahoma is prone to natural disasters, leading to significant insurance payouts. In 2023, insurers paid out $129 in claims for every $100 collected in premiums. The Oklahoma Insurance Department is working on long-term solutions, such as the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes grant program, to help homeowners fortify their homes against severe weather, potentially lowering premiums.
― Glen Mulready, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
