Senator James Lankford discussed pressing issues in Washington during the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s D.C. Spotlight event. He shared key legislative priorities as a new Congress and administration prepare to take office, addressing topics like tax policy, government efficiency and Oklahoma’s influence on national policy. Tax policy will be central to the Senate’s work in the coming year, as provisions from the 2017 tax bill are set to expire. Lawmakers will determine whether to extend existing policies or implement changes, including adjustments to energy-related tax incentives and restoring charitable deductions for non- itemizers. Lankford highlighted the need to address how eliminating these deductions in 2017 impacted nonprofits and small donors, stating, “The 2017 tax bill eliminated the deduction for nonprofit donations from non-itemizers, and 91% of Americans don’t itemize. These small donors are crucial to nonprofits, and if we don’t restore that deduction, we risk losing their support and volunteerism.” Lankford also discussed the potential for bipartisan collaboration to enhance government efficiency. He referenced the “DOGE” phenomenon—a humorous nod to the Department of Government Efficiency as coined in online tech communities—and connected it to a serious effort by the Trump Administration to streamline operations. He noted that the administration seeks to reduce redundancies and evaluate workforce structures, especially in the post-COVID era of remote work. Questions about managing telework, geographic flexibility for federal employees and cost savings are central to these efforts. Lankford pointed out that relocating remote federal workers to more cost-effective areas, like Oklahoma, could both benefit taxpayers and leverage regional expertise. Lankford also highlighted Oklahoma’s strengths in energy production, low electricity costs and a workforce known for its skill and dedication. “We have the lowest electricity rates in the country,” he said. “There’s a lot SENATOR LANKFORD OUTLINES KEY PRIORITIES FOR OKLAHOMA AND THE NATION AT THE CHAMBER’S ANNUAL D.C. SPOTLIGHT
of things that we’re doing right now that’s attracting business into us based on our cost of living, and quite frankly, our workforce.” He stressed that these factors are drawing businesses and investments to the state while positioning Oklahoma as a leader in national policy discussions. Oklahoma’s delegation in Congress, including leaders such as Appropriations Chair Tom Cole and Policy Chair Kevin Hern, further strengthens its voice in Washington. Reflecting on election outcomes, Lankford noted that economic concerns overwhelmingly drove voter sentiment. “The economy was number one in every single poll,” he said, emphasizing the need for actionable policies to address public priorities. Looking ahead, the Senate faces an intense schedule, including the passage of appropriations bills, disaster aid and key federal nominations. Lankford concluded by asking hard questions about Oklahoma’s growth and competitiveness, comparing it to the rapid expansion seen in regions like Dallas-Fort Worth. These conversations, he suggested, are vital as the state continues to draw national attention for its economic and legislative leadership. Senator James Lankford shared his perspective on key priorities in Oklahoma and the nation during a Q&A with Chair Teresa Rose at the D.C. Spotlight event.
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