Kevin Stitt on Budget & Economy

Cut waste, rather than new taxes, for growth

"His solution is always more taxes on hardworking Oklahomans," Stitt responded. Stitt said finding more money for state agencies will require cutting waste, stronger leadership and wisely spending $1 billion in new revenue coming to the state this year. "Our economy is starting to boom but our state has not captured that growth like it should," Stitt said.

"Mr. Stitt is doing what any good salesman would do, he is trying to tell you what you want to hear," said Edmondson, who added increasing taxes was the only way to truly invest in the state.

"There he goes again," Stitt responded. "It's always about new revenue, new taxes."

Create a level playing field for competition

Cornett is expected to gain support from the independent oil industry, while Stitt would be backed by Chamber of Commerce members and the largest oil producers.

State budget needs audits and line-item budgeting