On Monday, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt announced the creation of the Division of Government Efficiency (DOGE-OK).
The new division, inspired by a similar federal initiative by former President Donald Trump, aims to eliminate wasteful government spending, improve efficiency, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively.
Governor Stitt emphasized the importance of keeping budgets flat and limiting government growth. "Our top responsibility as leaders is ensuring we are working on behalf of all four million Oklahomans in the most efficient way possible," Stitt said1. DOGE-OK will work alongside state agencies, officials, and existing government efficiency initiatives to identify and eliminate waste.
The executive order creating DOGE-OK also establishes the unpaid position of Chief DOGE Advisor, who will report directly to Governor Stitt and have broad authority to review agency budgets and operations. The Chief Advisor will have full access to agency records, data, software systems, and IT systems.
Governor Stitt highlighted the division's goal to make Oklahoma a top ten state for business and reiterated his commitment to reducing the number of state employees by the end of his term. "Left unrestrained, government will always grow and grow. It’s just like the lobbyist bar tabs at Broadway 10," Stitt said, drawing laughter from the audience.
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The announcement comes as part of Stitt's broader agenda for the 2025 legislative session, which includes pushing for tax cuts and maintaining a $4 billion savings floor to ensure financial stability.
"We must protect our taxpayers, be the best state for business, safeguard the savings account, and protect Oklahoma’s way of life," Stitt added.
