AGP Executive Report

Digital Government: Oklahoma residents can now add their driver license and State ID to Apple Wallet, with Service Oklahoma saying it’s accepted at 250+ airports and starts Sept. 14 for age verification at tobacco and alcohol retailers. Public Safety: Oklahoma City EMSA reports a 37% jump in heat-related emergencies this year, while Oklahoma Highway Patrol is cracking down on impaired driving with a DUI checkpoint in Cleveland County over Labor Day weekend. Crime & Courts: OKC police say a six-week investigation led to two men accused in a $25,000 metro retail theft ring, and a judge is weighing whether to allow cameras in a State Farm storm-damage lawsuit. Infrastructure & Theft: AT&T is offering up to a $10,000 reward for information leading to copper theft arrests, after reporting 300+ incidents affecting its network since the start of 2026. Environment & Water: A flash drought is dropping water levels at Lake Hefner and Edmond ponds, with Lake Hefner now about 10 feet below average. Local Culture: Norman’s The Depot opens “Horizons: Oklahoma Landscapes” Sept. 11, featuring works by five Oklahoma artists.

Wildfire Watch: A grass fire that burned 25–30 acres near Sooner Road and Britton Road in northeast OKC rekindled overnight; crews are watching for hot spots, and officials say no injuries were reported and no homes were destroyed as burn bans remain in effect across 53 counties. Public Safety: Police arrested a driver after a crash into a southwest Oklahoma City business near SW 22nd and South Kentucky; witnesses said the driver ran a stop sign, one person was trapped and rescued, and no injuries were reported. Health & Heat: A heat advisory warns parts of northeast Oklahoma City/Green Country of dangerous heat with heat index values near 108 degrees and little meaningful rain, with drought and fire-weather concerns growing. Higher Ed: OCCC President Dr. Mautra Staley Jones was elected to the Higher Learning Commission Board of Trustees for a four-year term. Marijuana Oversight: Tulsa County DA Steve Kunzweiler is pushing tougher enforcement of Oklahoma’s medical marijuana industry after a deadly Sand Springs explosion tied to an unventilated manufacturing process. Local Economy/Tech: Oscar AI says Oklahoma-based Taco Bell operator O&M Restaurant Group selected its platform to improve store-level performance. Tribal Gaming: Oklahoma tribal nations are raising concerns about prediction markets and their impact on tribal gaming authority.

OSU Football: Eric Morris opens his first year at Oklahoma State as Jaleel Johnson turns “revenge tour” energy toward Saturday’s opener, with OSU releasing its first 2026 depth chart and Tulsa setting the stage for a big in-state matchup. Local Sports Rivalry: The “Turnpike Classic” keeps gaining meaning as OSU heads to H.A. Chapman Stadium for its season opener vs. Tulsa, with recent history and travel costs for fans in the spotlight. Public Safety: Oklahoma City road rage escalated into a knife fight near I-35, sending one man to the hospital, while OKC marks National Police K9 Day highlighting canine teams’ role in arrests and explosives sweeps. Health & Education: University of Central Oklahoma launches an AI-focused MBA program, and Oklahoma’s teacher certification pass rates are again under scrutiny for wide swings. State Policy & Justice: A new Oklahoma mentoring program for youth with incarcerated parents is set to take effect Nov. 1, 2026. Weather & Drought: Summer heat and drought pressures continue, with forecasts pointing to more triple-digit days into early September. Business & Infrastructure: The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority unveiled Toby Keith Expressway artwork and expanded PikePass interoperability to more states. Crime & Courts: A marijuana extraction facility owner faces murder charges after an explosion killed two employees.

Oklahoma City Traffic: A multi-vehicle crash in a construction zone is backing up westbound I-240, between I-35 and Eastern Ave., with a fire truck blocking a lane and traffic stretching about 3 miles. Local Development: OKC City Council will consider an economic development deal that could provide up to $3 million to redevelop the Gold Dome into a hospitality and entertainment venue, with a Dec. 31, 2027 completion target. Public Safety: OSBI is seeking a person of interest in a reported sexual assault at the Grove Sports Complex early Aug. 26, and released a composite sketch for tips. Crime Update: Sand Springs explosion suspect Ryan Bassham is back in jail on additional charges tied to another illegal marijuana operation. Health & Community: As alpha-gal spreads via ticks, Oklahomans are changing how they eat out—one Edmond bakery is building an allergy-friendly menu around separate prep to avoid cross-contact. Education & Policy: An Oklahoma Senate study explored an income tax credit for firearm safety training or getting a carry permit, focusing on how the Tax Commission would verify completion and protect privacy. Sports: Oklahoma’s season opener vs. UTEP highlights quarterback John Mateer’s push to bounce back, while West Virginia is expected to start Oklahoma transfer Michael Hawkins Jr. at QB. Honoring Service: Gov. Stitt ordered flags at half-staff for a federal wildlife officer believed to have died while evacuating residents during the Railroad South Fire.

Local Politics: Oklahoma House GOP leaders blocked off three days next month to review staff allegations against Rep. Danny Williams, with a behind-closed-doors meeting set for Sept. 8. Public Safety & Courts: An Oklahoma County judicial candidate, attorney Warren Plunk, died before the election, raising questions about whether a special election will be needed. Health & Weather: Oklahoma City logged one of its hottest, driest Augustes on record, with triple-digit heat and a second-hottest month; firefighters and EMS kept responding to heat impacts. Water & Tech: A massive water line leak tied to a data center in El Reno cost residents more than 3 million gallons and led to findings of code violations. Crime & Justice: A man was charged with murder after an explosion at a marijuana extraction facility in Sand Springs killed two workers; prosecutors allege unlawful hazardous chemical manufacturing. Environment & Fire: Crews battled multiple fires and burn bans spread as drought persists, including a major wildfire where a federal wildlife officer died helping evacuate families. Consumer & Business: Oklahoma joined a multi-state FTC lawsuit against Amazon over alleged hidden ad price markups. Sports (OU/OSU): OU coach Brent Venables said the Sooners likely won’t play Friday night games in the future, and OSU leadership changes include new interim provost and interim business dean.

Federal Courtroom Fight Over Inola Smelter: The U.S. Justice Department urged a judge to reject Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond’s attempt to block a proposed primary aluminum smelter in Inola, arguing the state lawsuit sidesteps required federal environmental permit review. Public Safety: Law enforcement is on high alert after anonymous social media threats targeted multiple Oklahoma school districts, including Little Axe, McLoud, Dale, Bethel, Prague and others. Local Crime: OSBI says an Alva police officer and his wife exploited an elderly man; the officer faces exploitation and conspiracy charges. Explosion Case Update: In Sand Springs, the man wanted in connection with a deadly explosion that killed two people has turned himself in and posted $2M bond; OSBI and ATF continue investigating. Wildfire Tragedy: A federal wildlife officer died while helping evacuate families during the Railroad South Fire. Health & Research: OMRF will oversee an NIH-funded study aimed at developing a medication for meth and cocaine addiction. Arts & Community: Oklahoma City’s first Collage Cabaret is set for Sept. 11, bringing together local music, theater, dance, film and more. Sports: OU football gets a boost with Trell Harris back at full speed for the season opener.

Wildfire tragedy: A federal wildlife officer, David Taylor, 38, of Scio, Oregon, is believed to have died while helping residents evacuate during the Railroad South Fire near Lawton/Indiahoma; officials say his last contact with dispatch came as he assisted a family leaving their home. Public safety shakeup: Beggs’ interim police chief resigned after weeks on the job, and the city is leaning on the Oklahoma Attorney General’s office for temporary help while it searches for a permanent chief. Crime and fire: Oklahoma City investigators say a suspicious apartment complex fire in the 7100 block of Melrose Lane led to two rescues and damage to three of four buildings; police took one person into custody. Missing person: Martin County, Florida, is searching for an Oklahoma visitor, Michael Debevec, after his vehicle was found at Chastain Beach and his family reported no contact. Crash: A Tulsa woman, Amelia Swindell, 31, was killed in a single-vehicle crash in Louisiana; impairment is suspected and toxicology samples were collected. Politics: Mike Mazzei won the GOP nomination for governor in Oklahoma’s runoff, setting up a general election against Cyndi Munson.

Public Safety: Oklahoma Highway Patrol issued an Endangered Missing Advisory for 37-year-old Shawnee resident Brittney Wilkins, last seen Aug. 29 around 10:30 p.m. near her home; she has epilepsy and was reported without her phone. Wildfire Watch: The Railroad South Fire near Indiahoma tore through structures after starting as a grass fire; crews made progress by early evening, but damage reports are still coming in. Health & Courts: Oklahoma City couple Craig and Elizabeth Gutierrez sued to force release of a state review into how State Farm handled wind-and-hail roof claims. Corrections & Politics: Oklahoma prison inmates have been working call centers for insurance and political polling under contracts with the Department of Corrections. Food Safety: The state health department upgraded a recall of Whole Foods guacamole dip to Class I over possible salmonella contamination tied to jalapenos. Local Tragedy: OHP reported a fatal rollover crash in Muskogee County involving a 32-year-old driver. Community & Sports: Oklahoma Youth Parasports hosted a cerebral palsy soccer clinic with U.S. national team player Shea Hammond. NCAA: No. 4 seed Oklahoma beat Idaho 89-59 and moves on to face Michigan State.

Highway Safety: A 32-year-old Beggs man, Christopher Caldwell, died in a rollover on SH-16 in Muskogee County after crossing the center line, hitting a culvert, and rolling three times; troopers said he wasn’t wearing a seat belt. Politics & Local Industry: An Inola family that runs Moore’s Fish Farm says the Republican runoff won’t settle their fight over a proposed aluminum smelter—votes in November may hinge on candidates’ positions on emissions. Courts & Corrections: Sara Polston, whose early release helped prompt changes to Oklahoma’s early-release law, is challenging the new rules in federal court. Public Health: The Oklahoma health department upgraded a Whole Foods guacamole recall to a Class I risk over possible salmonella contamination tied to jalapenos. Justice for Bombing Victims: The grandmother of Oklahoma City bombing children is asking a judge to order the medical examiner to release records and biological material tied to unidentified remains. Local Government Oversight: Tulsa County Juvenile Detention Home audits show progress, with recent inspections reporting no violations. Sports & Culture: Oklahoma City Ballet returns to Scissortail Park for a free Sept. 11 “Ballet Under the Stars,” and the Thunder face a big offseason question: replacing Isaiah Joe’s three-point production.

Beef Fight: Oklahoma ranchers and the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association are pushing back on President Donald Trump’s plan to bring in cheaper foreign beef, arguing it could undercut prices and hurt producers. Local Law Enforcement: Muskogee Police retiree Johnny “Teehee” Teehee was sworn in as the next U.S. marshal for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. Energy Policy: Researchers say 2027 could bring the “biggest year yet” for state energy siting bills, with many proposals aimed at restricting renewable projects even as some laws stay permissive. Public Safety: Oklahoma City police are investigating after a car was hit by a train overnight in northwest OKC; the driver got out and ran. Sports (College): Mississippi State scored four unanswered goals to beat Oklahoma State 4-1, flipping momentum early. Community/Weather: A magnitude 1.9 earthquake rattled the Newcastle area southwest of the OKC metro. Local Sports (NEO): NEO baseball player Eliott Marin earned the NJCAA Rawlings Gold Glove First Base award for the 2026 spring season.

Fall Migration: BirdCast estimates 8,407,200 birds crossed Oklahoma overnight, with species like flycatchers, orioles, and night herons moving through—highlighting how artificial light can throw off night-migrating birds. Local Flavor: Ringwood’s K&S Produce keeps the classic Oklahoma roadside fruit-stand tradition alive on U.S. 412. Tribal Politics: Tribal leaders met at the University of Tulsa for a first look at the 2026 general election ballot and how Native voters can boost turnout. Public Safety: Bodycam shows a man allegedly firing a homemade flamethrower at U.S. officers during an eviction; he was charged and no one was injured. Infrastructure: OKC reported a water main break near Britton Road and May Avenue, closing eastbound lanes while crews repair the line. Heat Watch: Another stretch of triple-digit temperatures is expected across Oklahoma, with more 100+ days likely. Justice & Health: Oklahoma’s mental health backlog leaves some accused defendants stuck in county jails waiting for treatment beds. Cost of Living: Oklahomans are pushing for an audit of PSO rate increases after bills reportedly jumped sharply. Campaign Spotlight: Cyndi Munson says fixing public education and improving health care are her top priorities heading into the final months.

Education Politics: Democratic state superintendent nominee Jennettie Marshall says she’ll focus on stronger relationships with educators and parents, curriculum improvements, and an audit of the state education agency as she prepares to face GOP nominee Robert Franklin in November. Public Safety & Courts: Oklahoma City police say a late-night chase ended in a crash in the northwest part of the city; the driver was taken into custody and was uninsured. Utilities & Cost of Living: A PSO electric-bill petition has surged to nearly 25,000 signatures in two weeks, with the utility responding that it’s working on waiving fees and late charges while customers demand clearer answers. Local Government: A Sallisaw school bond proposal cleared a majority but fell short of the 60% supermajority, putting major projects on hold. State Policy Watch: Oklahoma’s childcare subsidy program is under review after an audit, with officials saying safeguards reduce the risk of large-scale fraud. Community & Culture: Tulsa Theater owner Peter Mayo is staging a three-day “final encore” event marking the end of his decades-long run.

Voter Turnout & Ballot Measures: Oklahoma saw higher-than-usual turnout in Tuesday’s runoff elections, with 371,000+ Republicans voting in the GOP governor runoff and State Question 846 passing to enshrine voter ID requirements in the state constitution, while State Question 844 was rejected by about 74%. Local Politics: Two incumbent state lawmakers were ousted in the runoffs, including Sen. Dana Prieto and Sen. Jack Stewart, as voters backed challengers. Legal Fight Over Immigration Tuition: The U.S. Justice Department sued New Mexico and also challenged other states over in-state tuition access for undocumented students, arguing it conflicts with federal law. Public Safety Tech: Fort Smith announced major changes to its Flock camera program, including cutting license plate data retention to seven days and limiting other agencies’ access. Health Alert: A cyclospora outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce has expanded to more states, with reported cases now above 11,400. Oklahoma Sports: OSU Cowgirls fell 4-1 at Mississippi State in a heat-affected opener, and Oklahoma high school football Class B-II saw major realignment ahead of the season.

Education & Elections: Oklahoma Watch reports Robert Franklin won the GOP runoff for state superintendent, setting up a November matchup. Public Safety: Police say two people died in a massive warehouse explosion in Sand Springs early Thursday; the cause is under investigation and nearby roads are closed. State Policy: Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond issued an opinion saying farmers hauling equipment don’t need a highway escort, and also said a school wasn’t constitutionally required to cancel a community prayer walk. Health & Privacy: A federal rural health program faces transparency concerns, and a separate report finds caregiver depression and anxiety tied to worse mental health outcomes for youth with cystic fibrosis. Tech & Business: Meta reached a $235 million settlement in Oklahoma to add child-safety limits on Facebook and Instagram, while PowerCompute says its Oklahoma GPU deployment hit Verified status on Vast.ai. Community: Norman’s “A Better Way” homeless work program is being shut down after a denied AG grant request.

Oklahoma Politics: Republican voters picked Bob Sullivan as Oklahoma’s next insurance commissioner nominee, beating Marty Quinn and setting up a November matchup with Democrat Craig MacIntyre. Elections Watch: Runoff results are in across the state, including a razor-thin GOP governor race where Mike Mazzei edged Gentner Drummond by about 2,000 votes—an outcome that could shape how Democrats approach November. Tribal & Courts: The Muscogee (Creek) Nation told the 10th Circuit that Tulsa County DA authority is being overstated in a dispute over whether nonmember Native Americans can be prosecuted for certain reservation crimes. Local Development: Oklahoma City’s Asian District got approval to revive a building into Lotus Apartments, a 49-unit complex with a restaurant, dog park, and office space. Health & Safety: Oklahoma’s air hit a rare, severe ozone day, with DEQ pointing to stalled weather and weak cloud cover that let ozone build over Tulsa. Culture: “Nanyehi – The Story of Nancy Ward” returns to Hard Rock Live Tulsa Oct. 9-10.

Oklahoma Politics: Former state Sen. Mike Mazzei narrowly won the GOP governor runoff, beating Attorney General Gentner Drummond by about 2,000 votes and setting up a November matchup with Democrat Cyndi Munson. State Questions: Voters approved SQ 846, requiring state-issued ID at the polls, while rejecting SQ 844, keeping property tax reimbursements in place. Education: Republican superintendent runoff winner Robert Franklin will face Democrat Jennettie Marshall, with Franklin emphasizing literacy and support for teachers. Public Safety: A near-drowning on Lake Eufaula left a 71-year-old man in critical condition; an Atoka County EMS ambulance was involved in a fatal crash on US-69; and a McGee Creek-area search successfully found two lost hikers after they called 911. Environment & Fire: Oklahoma forestry officials warned about emerald ash borer beetles found near McGee Creek, as burn bans and wildfire risk continue across parts of the state.