Oklahoma state government is facing scrutiny over recent decisions to increase salaries and award raises to members of Gov. Kevin Stitt’s administration, sparking criticism from at least one state lawmaker. The concerns center around the justification for these increases and whether they represent a responsible utilize of taxpayer funds, particularly as the state navigates ongoing budgetary considerations.
The controversy comes as Governor Stitt nears the end of his second term, having recently appointed several key personnel to bolster his administration’s capacity to advance its agenda. These appointments, announced in September 2025, included Dustin Hilliary as Senior Advisor, David Ostrowe as Chief Operating Officer and Secretary, and Donelle Harder as Secretary of State. The timing of these appointments, coupled with the salary adjustments, has fueled the debate over executive compensation.
Details regarding the specific amounts of the raises and salary adjustments remain somewhat limited, but the concerns raised by the unnamed lawmaker suggest they are substantial. The criticism focuses on the fact that these increases were approved as Governor Stitt aims to conclude his final year and a half in office, leading to questions about the priorities of the administration. The appointments themselves were framed by the Governor as a move to bring “a fresh set of eyes from Oklahoma’s business community” to finish his term strong, according to a statement released on September 11, 2025.
New Appointments and Roles
The appointments announced by Governor Stitt represent a reshuffling of key positions within his administration. Dustin Hilliary, co-owner of Hilliary Communications, will serve as Senior Advisor and chief negotiator with state legislators. Hilliary’s background includes experience in broadband, media, and telecommunications, as well as leadership roles on public and private sector governing boards. David Ostrowe, previously the first Secretary of Digital Transformation and Administration in Oklahoma, returns as Chief Operating Officer, aiming to continue efforts to improve government efficiency and transparency. Donelle Harder, a communications professional, was initially appointed as Secretary of State but later transitioned to the role of Chief of Staff after discovering she did not meet a 10-year state voter registration requirement stipulated by the Oklahoma Constitution, as reported on October 2, 2025.
Governor Stitt defended the appointments, stating that these individuals bring “diverse strengths” and will “elevate the capacity of my administration.” He emphasized the importance of leveraging expertise from the business community to deliver lasting results for the people of Oklahoma. Though, the timing of these changes and the associated compensation packages have drawn the ire of at least one legislator who believes the funds could be better allocated elsewhere.
Concerns Over Fiscal Responsibility
The core of the criticism revolves around the question of fiscal responsibility. The lawmaker, who has not been publicly named, argues that the raises and salary increases are unwarranted, especially considering the state’s financial situation and competing demands for public resources. The debate highlights a broader tension between attracting qualified individuals to public service through competitive compensation and maintaining accountability to taxpayers. The Oklahoma Governor’s office has not yet responded directly to the specific criticisms regarding the salary adjustments.
The appointments and salary adjustments come after two of Governor Stitt’s top officials recently resigned, prompting the need for replacements. The Governor’s decision to fill these positions with individuals familiar with Oklahoma state government suggests a preference for experience and a desire for continuity during his final term. However, critics argue that this approach may also limit the potential for fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Looking ahead, the issue of executive compensation is likely to remain a point of contention in Oklahoma politics. The state legislature may seek greater oversight of salary decisions within the executive branch, and the debate could influence future budgetary allocations. The focus will be on ensuring that taxpayer funds are used effectively and that public officials are held accountable for their spending decisions. The unfolding situation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in state government.
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