Amidst resistance from Democrat-led states against former President Trump's immigration policies, Oklahoma Education Superintendent Ryan Walters is urging states to back the former president and actively implement his executive orders. Walters, a Republican, contends that all state officials and agencies, including education systems, should play a part in advancing Trump's agenda.

He questions the lack of swift action from states in enacting these policies, highlighting the contrasting stance of Democrat governors and officials who have vowed to obstruct them. Recently, Walters sought clarification from Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond on how the state's public education system could implement Trump's executive order aimed at halting taxpayer funding for programs that allegedly encourage illegal immigration.

This executive order, titled "Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders," directs federal agencies to ensure that taxpayer-funded benefits are not provided to individuals deemed unqualified. The stated goal is to prevent taxpayer resources from attracting illegal immigration.

Drummond, however, responded by commending Trump's order but stating its irrelevance to state agencies. He characterized Walters' request as political posturing and criticized Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt's handling of immigration issues.

Stitt, in response, dismissed the criticisms as politically motivated maneuvering. He affirmed his commitment to protecting Oklahomans and children within the state. Walters expressed disappointment with Drummond's response, emphasizing the attorney general's duty to offer opinions on all laws. He reiterated his support for Trump's executive order and called for a united front in protecting Oklahoma families.

Walters argues that while the order applies to federal funds, state education officials must ensure compliance within their federally funded programs. He claims that under the Biden administration, Oklahoma schools were overwhelmed by an influx of undocumented students, straining resources and impacting opportunities for U.S. citizens. He estimates a minimum expenditure of $474 million on these students.

Since Trump's return to office, Walters has actively championed policies aimed at addressing the migrant crisis. He previously announced a plan for Oklahoma public schools to track and report students' immigration status to federal authorities, a policy opposed by Stitt and currently under legislative review.

Walters advocates for nationwide adoption of similar measures by education systems to implement Trump's orders. He believes states must choose between aligning with Trump's immigration agenda or Biden's approach, which he perceives as ignoring the issue. He sees the recent election as a clear mandate for states to align with Trump's policies.