Hi Rika- I wanted to respond to your note, but my access to that particular channel in Facebook is currently restricted. Facebook wants me to give them my drivers license and a facial scan in order to post and I am not willing to do that, apologies. (see recent news about drivers license scans being compromised/stolen)

Here is my answer to your concerns:

hullo! My funding has mostly come from a variety of normal individuals in humble amounts... mostly from folks who either know me from church or other connections, or who said my message resonated with them. This will all be publicly available as per OK ethics rules once filing deadlines pass and the State releases the info.

Fee structure for mailers is reasonable, and I decided to go that route instead of a billboard (roughly equivalent cost?) or bothersome text messages (which I loathe). Limiting targeting to a hopefully receptive audience was a cost saving measure to be wise with the resources I've been graciously given. Everyone has their own values that tend to connect to others in particular ways, so I am trying to be honest about my own. As I am currently just a normal citizen I enjoy and reserve the rights to my freedom of speech.

As to others 'calling the shots'- I am very much my own man, with my own (sometimes silly) opinions. I am also acutely aware that I may have blind spots, and seek council from elders with whom I have long acquaintance, as well as from history books and writers and other sources to try and remediate deficiencies. I have talked to Larry East several times in attempts to come to grasp with this potential task before me, and he has been exceedingly gracious in his public endorsement, and generous in his sharing of hard-earned council wisdom.

As my family and I are currently Bartlesville residents, I should very much hope that whatever decisions I make should be in the best long-term interests of everyone. God grant that I and my family will be able to grow old here and be a blessing however we can.

I have already fielded several phone calls and requests from individuals, the political backgrounds of which I remain ignorant, asking general questions or presenting interesting ideas about how to better serve particular areas of Bartlesville (parents of autistic children in one case). I intend to listen to all, equally, in keeping with my stated goal of maximally elevating 1st amendment rights, and in all ways giving preference to the individual.

Thank you, and best wishes.