With the relentless deluge of chaotic headlines, Americans are being confronted daily with disturbing images and conflicting narratives about immigration enforcement. On TV and social media, ICE agents are increasingly seen as a shadowy, unaccountable police force—conducting raids, detentions and removals with little explanation of the broader strategy behind them. While the intensity of these … Continue reading Where is the immigration plan?
If we want more babies, we need to fix adulthood first
I read an article last week noting that by the end of this decade, every Baby Boomer in America will be 65 or older. Because Baby Boomers make up the largest generation, we’re already feeling the effects of that demographic shift—worker shortages, pressure on health care systems and growing strain on Social Security and Medicare. … Continue reading If we want more babies, we need to fix adulthood first
A season for reflection, embracing a new kind of journey
The coming of Christmas — and the beginning of a new year — has a way of inviting reflection. For many, this time carries mixed emotions. Some have endured difficult, even traumatic, times this year. Others look back and see growth and healing or unexpected progress along their journey. For most of us, it’s a … Continue reading A season for reflection, embracing a new kind of journey
The OU controversy shows just how ridiculous outrage culture has become
The whining and hand-wringing over the “Fulnecky incident” at OU is still going strong, and honestly, it’s getting ridiculous. There’s nothing wrong with people offering thoughtful disagreement or perspectives shaped by their own experiences. I’ve read plenty of reasonable commentary from all sides of this mess. But this newest idea—that OU students should get tuition … Continue reading The OU controversy shows just how ridiculous outrage culture has become
Mississippi has passed us: The question is, will Oklahoma really even try?
Oklahoma’s largest business organization is sounding the clarion call once again that Oklahoma is running out of time when it comes to investing in our future. Last week, the Oklahoma State Chamber rolled out a renewed push to make reading literacy a top priority in this state. This isn’t a new idea. We’ve been here … Continue reading Mississippi has passed us: The question is, will Oklahoma really even try?
Why State Question 836 can be seen as a recommitment to populist roots
Oklahoma ranks dead last — 50th — in voter turnout. That’s not a coincidence. It’s the result of a system designed to make most voters irrelevant. How can anyone who believes in the Oklahoma Standard not be outraged by that? Our state was built on populist roots — a belief that the people’s voice should … Continue reading Why State Question 836 can be seen as a recommitment to populist roots
The only revolution America needs: Rebuilding the Middle Class
It seems we spend a lot of time complaining about what’s wrong with our economy and our government systems. And certainly, there’s plenty to complain about. But let’s face it — the 2026 midterms are just a year away, and the same politicians we’ve been grumbling about are already warming up their campaign speeches. They’ll … Continue reading The only revolution America needs: Rebuilding the Middle Class
Conservatives, it’s time to demand better from the GOP
I first started writing a conservative opinion column during my days as editor of the Enid News & Eagle in the early 2000s. At the time, my writing came from a traditional conservative perspective, meant to counter what I saw as the excesses of the left in the wake of the Clinton presidency, the disputed … Continue reading Conservatives, it’s time to demand better from the GOP
Condemn the murder, confront the legacy: Why Charlie Kirk’s harmful ideology cannot be sanitized
Since last week’s brutal murder of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk on a Utah college campus, emotions have run high. A suspect is now in custody, but questions, accusations and rising tensions persist, with little sign that the national climate is cooling. The right-wing propaganda machine—with leaders like Donald Trump and Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters—has … Continue reading Condemn the murder, confront the legacy: Why Charlie Kirk’s harmful ideology cannot be sanitized
Boomer anxiety, fear fueled backlash to Cracker Barrel’s rebrand
I’ve been fascinated with the recent backlash over a long-time chain restaurant’s attempt to address financial pressures and gain relevance again in a very competitive restaurant market. Cracker Barrel, which has been around for nearly 50 years, announced a logo and restaurant style change recently, and quickly the angst over the changes overshadowed the national … Continue reading Boomer anxiety, fear fueled backlash to Cracker Barrel’s rebrand
Cindy Allen 