Lawmakers Criticize OU over SEC Decision; 34 sign letter expressing disappointment | Government-and-politics

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Having a successful athletic program helps recruiting and donating faculty and students, Hilbert said.

That’s a big deal, said Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater, who also signed the letter.

The decision is bigger than football and will affect the economy of Stillwaters, she said.

Sports at OSU are very appealing to our city, Ranson said. People who come to the games spend money in Stillwater staying in hotels, eating in restaurants, and shopping downtown. The idea that OU decided to leave the conference without us is a big deal.

Senator James Leewright, R-Bristow, said he was disappointed that the OU and OSU were not working together. He also signed the letter.

House Minority Floor Leader Emily Virgin D-Norman said she believes the move will be good for the state, despite what critics are saying.

The University of Oklahoma, its president and board of directors all have a duty to look after the best interests of the University of Oklahoma, and they have done so, she said. declared.

Senator Mary Boren, D-Norman, agreed with Virgin.

OU has overcome decades of mediocre, capricious, and waning support from the Oklahoma state legislature through successful business decisions and should remain unhindered to protect the excellence of student-athletes and the University of Oklahoma, Boren said.

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