The Power of We the People

By Rep. Rick West

I spent last Thursday, Sept. 17, speaking to a group of Carl Albert State College honor students on the importance of the U.S. Constitution. These are impressive young people. One even dressed as George Washington for this Constitution Day observance.

I read them the preamble of the Constitution, highlighting the importance of the phrase, “We the People.”

The Constitution was started by we the people, not a king or aristocrats, but by the people who had the courage to continue to form this new nation after fighting for independence from Great Britain. Still, in 1787, there were a lot of people excluded from full participation in the drafting of the Constitution and in our new system of government. This included women, enslaved people and men who did not own property. We’ve come a long way since the day this document was signed.

Among the most important principles in the U.S. Constitution are limited government and the separation of powers. I reminded these students that absolute power corrupts absolutely. We must always stand vigilantly against any individual or group that tries to seize absolute power over others. This is important at every level of government.

I told these students they are special. The world is waiting on them to make a difference. I urged them to get involved in public life and stay involved. This is not about one man or one group. It is about all of us – we the people.

The students were engaged and asked good questions. It gives me hope for the future.

Speaking of we the people, those registered to vote will have the opportunity to consider State Question 847 on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.

The question asks voters whether or not to approve a constitutional amendment to change how property taxes are calculated to limit increases.

Changes would take effect beginning in tax year 2027, if approved. Under current law, annual valuation increases are limited to 5% for most real property and 3% for homesteads and agricultural land. The proposal would reduce those limits to 4% and 1.75%, respectively.

Lawmakers were told this would give Oklahoma the lowest fixed cap on growth on homestead property taxes of any state in the nation, should this be approved by voters.

The measure also would establish a tiered system for homestead property owned by those who are 65 and older, basing the cap on income relative to median income within their county. Those making at or below 100% of the median income would have no increase. Those making above 180% of the median income would have a 1.75% cap. Steps between 0.35% to 1.4% would exist between the lowest and highest levels.

Supporters say the change is much needed, particularly to help seniors. Detractors say this may slow revenue growth that supports local services, including public education. We the people will have to decide how to vote on this important issue.

Remember to listen to my Capitol update on the radio at 7:35 a.m. every Thursday on KPRV.

As always, if I can help you with anything, please call my Capitol office at (405) 557-7413 or email me at rick.west@okhouse.gov.

Rick West serves District 3 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes part of LeFlore County.

Heavener.news does not endorse or support any political candidate. The story is published as a service to our readers.

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