OKC Standard

On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin addressed the Norman Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., as part of their annual Washington Fly-in event. The meeting centered around discussions on DOGE cuts and the push to return power to state authorities, as well as the roles that Senator Mullin and Representative Tom Cole hold on their respective committees.

During the meeting, Senator Mullin emphasized the importance of decentralizing bureaucratic processes and returning decision-making power to the states. "The President wants to get it closer to the communities and let you guys make decisions on what’s best for your community," said Mullin. He critiqued the current system, stating that federal departments are often out of touch with local communities: "It’s very difficult for people up here in Washington, DC to know what’s going on in Norman. They don’t."

Highlighting the importance of infrastructure projects, Mullin explained the collaboration between the Senate and House Appropriations Committees. "Tom and I will work closely together with it… I felt like we could be more helpful being on Approps," he remarked. Mullin emphasized his commitment, stating, "So, all these infrastructure projects, I’m well aware of them, and we’ll continue to try carrying them, to fight for them, with you guys."

Addressing rumors on DOGE cuts, Mullin advised against chasing unverified information. "Now talking about DOGE, here’s what I tell all the different chambers that’s coming up here... don’t chase a rumor," he encouraged, offering his connections as a resource for information. He further elaborated on changes in transportation, noting, "Sean Duffy, they’re shrinking the size of the Department of Transportation too." The goal, according to Mullin, is to bring decision-making closer to the state and maximize the effectiveness of federal dollars.

Mullin underscored his strong relationships with figures in the administration and reiterated the importance of states managing infrastructure and education funds. "So, with all this, it’s about pushing it closer to the state," Mullin concluded, quoting the President's goal to make federal funds more effective.