The month of November was dominated by the presidential election and its aftermath. Columnists shared their thoughts on the outcome and what it means for the future. Education in Oklahoma was also once again a hot topic for our local guest columnists.
President-elect Donald Trump speaks during an election night event at the West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on November 6, 2024.
Election
GOING FORWARD: In an editorial, Clytie Bunyan of The Oklahoman writes that our wish is for Donald Trump to recognize the erupting divisions among people in this country and engage in healing.
RED LINE: Trump’s irresponsible policies and dictatorial leadership style will have lasting consequences, writes guest columnist Lynn Adams. Will Oklahoma’s red state status protect us?
WINNING STRATEGY: Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt writes that in this city we have a long history of Republicans, Democrats and independents putting aside the things that divide us and finding common purpose. OKC residents may be divided over national politics, but we are working together to make progress, he wrote.
THE WRONG MESSAGE? Trump’s election sends a contradictory message to children, writes guest columnist David Myers. He asks: Are we telling our children that honesty, responsibility and integrity no longer matter in the highest sphere of power?
EDITORIAL CARTOON: The elections are over. Now is the time to work to bring the divided nation back together.
Education
WHAT NOW? After Ryan Walters was passed over for the position of education secretary in Trump’s Cabinet, we asked readers to provide advice on what Walters should do next.
MAIN INVESTMENT: Research shows that a good educational position is an important factor in attracting new companies and employment. Our schools are not meeting requirements, writes guest columnist Phil Busey Sr. Let’s demand better education from our leaders.
PRIORITY PROBLEM: Public schools struggle for resources, especially in rural areas, writes Hannah Royce, yet money is shifted to private schools.
BAD FIGURES: Oklahoma lawmakers swayed by unreliable education data, writes guest columnist John Thompson. If teachers lose their right to due process, who will be able to oppose Ryan Walters’ curriculum committee?
Other recordings
Don’t pass on the leftovers: Thanksgiving is usually a time for gratitude, writes Clytie Bunyan, but many Oklahomans struggle with finances and wellness. These realities are not meant to make anyone choke on their turkey dinner. It’s time we take a sobering look at the policies that aren’t working for many Oklahomans.
MUL ABOUT: Janelle Stecklein of Oklahoma Voice writes that Mike Gundy should stick to what he does best: football, instead of blaming everyone else for his failures. His recent tirade demonstrated a lack of empathy toward fellow Oklahomans.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: November Viewpoints: Trump’s election, Ryan Walters and education
