POLITICS: State Demands $474M From Kamala Due to Costs From Her Failures

Oklahoma’s Superintendent Ryan Walters demands $474.9 million from Vice President Kamala Harris for education costs linked to illegal immigration, exposing a bitter state-federal clash over border policies.

At a Glance

• Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters sent a “demand letter” to VP Kamala Harris for $474.9 million in education costs
• Walters claims illegal immigration is “crippling” Oklahoma schools, calling it the “largest unfunded mandate”
• The superintendent encourages other states to calculate and report similar costs
• Harris’ office has not responded to the letter
• Walters criticizes Harris for her oversight of the border crisis

Oklahoma Takes Bold Stand Against Federal Immigration Policies

In a move that highlights the growing tension between states and the federal government over immigration policies, Oklahoma’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, has taken an unprecedented step. Walters sent a “demand letter” to Vice President Kamala Harris, seeking $474.9 million to offset the costs of educating illegal immigrant children in Oklahoma schools. This action puts a spotlight on the financial strain that states claim they’re experiencing due to the ongoing border crisis.

I demand that @VP Harris reimburse Oklahoma taxpayers for the cost of educating illegal immigrants in our public schools, a direct result of the Biden-Harris failure to secure the border.

https://t.co/waUQ1E6dWJ

— Superintendent Ryan Walters (@RyanWaltersSupt) October 29, 2024

The Financial Burden on Oklahoma Schools

Walters argues that the influx of illegal immigrants is placing an enormous financial burden on Oklahoma’s education system. He characterizes the situation as “crippling” for Oklahoma schools and labels the education of illegal immigrant minors as the “largest unfunded mandate in the country.” This bold claim underscores the frustration felt by many state officials who believe they’re being left to deal with the consequences of federal immigration policies without adequate support.

“As the statewide elected Superintendent of Public Instruction of the State of Oklahoma and the Executive Officer of the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE), it is my duty to ensure that the resources allocated to our public schools are counted for and used in the most effective manner possible for the benefit of Oklahoma students’ education” – Ryan Walters

The superintendent’s statement reflects a growing sentiment among conservative state officials who feel that their duty to manage state resources efficiently is being compromised by federal immigration policies. By quantifying the cost and demanding reimbursement, Walters is attempting to shift the financial responsibility back to the federal government.

A Call for Accountability

Walters doesn’t mince words when it comes to his criticism of Vice President Harris and her role in overseeing border security. He squarely places the blame for the current situation on the Biden administration’s policies and Harris’s performance as the appointed “border czar.” This critique resonates with many conservatives who have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with the current administration’s handling of immigration issues.

“Under your supervision, the costs in education due to illegal immigration have risen astronomically. Your failed oversight and efforts are a direct cause of the current crises Oklahoma and other states now face. Oklahoma taxpayers, schools, teachers, and parents should not bear the burden of your failings. They deserve better.” – Ryan Walters

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The superintendent’s demand for accountability extends beyond just financial reimbursement. He’s calling for a reassessment of how immigration policies are formulated and implemented, emphasizing the need for consideration of state-level impacts. This approach aligns with the conservative principle of state rights and fiscal responsibility.

A Rallying Cry for Other States

Walters isn’t content with just addressing Oklahoma’s concerns. He’s encouraging other states to follow suit by calculating and reporting the costs of illegal immigration on their education systems. This call to action could potentially lead to a coordinated effort among conservative-led states to challenge federal immigration policies on fiscal grounds.

“Since she’s been the border czar, she’s failed our country.” – Ryan Walters

The superintendent’s blunt assessment of Vice President Harris’s performance echoes a sentiment shared by many conservatives who feel that the current administration has neglected its duty to secure the border and manage immigration effectively. By framing the issue in terms of its impact on education – a topic that resonates with many voters – Walters is attempting to bring the consequences of federal immigration policies into sharper focus for the American public.

The Road Ahead

As the Biden administration continues to face criticism for its handling of the border crisis, actions like Walters’ demand letter are likely to become more common. The lack of response from Harris’s office so far is telling, and it remains to be seen how the federal government will address these state-level concerns. What’s clear is that the issue of illegal immigration and its impact on state resources, particularly in education, is far from resolved. It’s a debate that will undoubtedly play a significant role in upcoming political discussions and elections.