Let's Pod This

Oklahoma lawmakers are sending some of the biggest ballot questions in state history to an August election most voters won't know is happening. Andy breaks down the joint resolutions targeting Medicaid, TSET, and the state Constitution — and why the date is the point. Then: candidate filing just closed, and the numbers reveal a democracy where 68% of races are already decided before November. Two stories, one system.

Oklahoma Watch story referenced: https://oklahomawatch.org/2026/04/03/choose-your-own-voters-republican-lawmakers-send-high-stakes-ballot-initiatives-to-low-turnout-election/

NonDoc has several stories on candidate filing: https://nondoc.com/category/civics/politics/

Andy & Emily discuss how late-night lawmaking and budget maneuvers reduce transparency, then unpack a pressing—and persistent—Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services funding gap that prompted agency heads to hold a “premature” press conference about consolidating ODMHSAS into the Department of Health, despite concerns that consolidation won’t solve a roughly $20–30 million shortfall. They also talk property tax sticker shock, strategic party registration for the gubernatorial primary, and promote CIVICS CON (April 9–10 at Rose State College).

Almost no one living person has spent more time at the Oklahoma State Capitol than longtime capitol reporter Shawn Ashley. From being a public television journalist to owning a bill tracking and news service (Quorum Call), Shawn has spent 30 years listening, writing, and laughing about what happens in those halls of power, and he joined us this week to reflect on his tenure and discuss what's unique about this session.

We're joined by Dr. Christine Pappas, Professor and Chair of the Department of Politics, Law and Society at East Central University, to discuss the SAVE Act (aka the SAVE America Act, aka the Make Elections Great Again (MEGA) Act) and it's potential impact on elections in Oklahoma and across the country.

Dr. Emily Stacey returns to the show, but this time as our new co-host. This episode is really about getting to know her so that listeners have some background for future episodes.

We're back for a lightning-round episode to catch you up on the State of the State, voter registration numbers, election dates, and even a little bit of national politics (which is insane).

Andy visits with Colleen McCarty, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law & Justice, about the role and responsibilities of District Attorneys. Hint: They're more important than you think.

We take a look back at some of the highlights (and lowlights) of 2025, and lay the groundwork for the year ahead.

Keith and Andy discuss the electoral reform movement, Oklahoma Independents being blocked from participating in ALL primary elections, and, somewhat surprisingly, the great state of Texas.

As 2025 begins to wind down, Andy reflects on what he's thankful for and offers some encouragement for the year ahead.