From Hot Seat on News 9 and News On 6:
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt has big plans for the state—here’s what his communications director had to say about them.
Stitt is making waves with his latest policy initiatives, from pushing for tax cuts to reshaping Oklahoma’s education system. Abegail Cave, the governor’s director of communications, joined Hot Seat to discuss his vision for the state, his leadership on a national scale, and even his recent personal health journey.
Inside the Governor’s Office: A Day in the Life of Abegail Cave
Cave, who relocated from Washington, D.C., to Oklahoma to work for Stitt, described her role as keeping the governor informed, monitoring media coverage, and handling various communication requests. Having grown up in Cheyenne, Wyoming, she said the transition to Oklahoma felt natural and allowed her to contribute to Stitt’s agenda effectively.
Gov. Stitt’s Health and New Look
One of the personal updates Cave shared was Stitt’s recovery from heart surgery, which he has used as a platform to encourage Oklahomans to prioritize their health. “He’s competitive with his staff when it comes to physical fitness,” Cave said. Another lighter moment came when discussing the governor’s new beard, which has gained the approval of Oklahoma’s First Lady.
Leading on a National Stage
Stitt’s leadership extends beyond Oklahoma, as he now serves as vice chair of the National Governors Association (NGA), a bipartisan group that helps shape policies across the country. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis chairs the group, and together, they aim to promote collaboration on key issues such as education and economic growth.
Energy Vision: Balancing Oil, Gas, and Renewables
As Oklahoma continues to be a top producer of oil and gas, Stitt is advocating for what he calls an “energy abundance agenda.” While remaining pro-oil and gas, he also supports renewable energy, emphasizing that the free market should dictate energy solutions rather than government intervention. His goal? To ensure Oklahoma plays a major role in powering the country—and even the world.
Education Overhaul: Fresh Faces and New Strategies
One of Stitt’s more controversial moves has been the removal of three education board members, a decision that Cave defended as necessary to bring “fresh perspectives” to the state’s education system. The governor has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with Oklahoma’s education rankings and is focused on implementing changes to improve student outcomes.
Pushing for Tax Cuts and Fiscal Responsibility
Looking ahead to the 60th Oklahoma Legislature, Stitt’s priorities include a half-point tax cut on individual and business income tax, with a long-term goal of eventually reaching a zero tax rate, similar to states like Texas and Florida. Cave emphasized that this push aligns with Stitt’s commitment to protecting taxpayers, being business-friendly, and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Additionally, Stitt has issued executive orders to cut lobbying contracts for state agencies and reduce public relations spending. His administration is also working to eliminate unnecessary expenditures, including excessive state vehicle use.
Media’s Role in Covering Government
Cave praised local media for their commitment to covering essential community issues but acknowledged the ongoing challenges of modern journalism. She noted the tension between making money and maintaining journalistic integrity, particularly in the era of social media, and stressed the importance of accuracy in reporting.
Looking Ahead
As Gov. Stitt continues to push his agenda, his administration remains focused on economic growth, energy development, and education reform. With a mix of bold initiatives and national leadership, Stitt is positioning Oklahoma as a state to watch.
Cave hinted that Stitt would be open to future interviews, ensuring Oklahomans stay informed about his administration’s goals and achievements.
Stay tuned for more updates on Hot Seat as we continue to track Oklahoma’s political landscape.
