Oklahoma’s own Alan Armstrong, who was appointed to the U.S. Senate by Governor Kevin Stitt after Markwayne Mullin left for the Department of Homeland Security, is focusing on one last priority before his term ends: permitting reform.
Local leaders hear the plan
Speaking to members of the Tulsa Rotary Club on Wednesday, Armstrong thanked the community for the opportunity to serve and warned that Congress has spent too much time on short‑term pop‑culture issues and not enough on long‑term challenges such as the national debt and permitting bottlenecks.
“Way too much attention to populism and performance and not enough being put on big, long‑term, serious issues that we have as a country, like debt and permitting reform,” he said.
Legislation at the center
Armstrong is championing the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act of 2026, a bill designed to streamline the permitting process for energy projects across the United States. He believes the legislation will help Oklahoma attract more businesses by leveraging the state’s low energy costs.
While confident the bill will clear the Senate, Armstrong expressed concern about the House’s role. “It would put some pressure mostly on the House. Frankly, I am not too worried about it getting through the Senate, but I am worried about it getting through the House,” he explained.
Transition to Sen.-elect Kevin Hern
An Oklahoma Attorney General ruling last week confirmed that the winner of the November 3 election can serve through the remainder of the year, clearing the way for Congressman Kevin Hern, now Senator‑elect, to assume the seat within days. Armstrong’s office has been working closely with Hern’s team to ensure a smooth handoff.
“We’ve been working with Senator Hern’s office in trying to make a smooth transition and I think we’ve made really good progress on that,” Armstrong said.
Final push before departure
Before the transition, Armstrong wants the permitting bill voted on and placed on the Senate floor. “Getting the permitting bill voted for and on the floor in the Senate and get it voted for before they target for this,” he said.
Armstrong indicated he does not plan to seek another elected office, but he remains eager to help Oklahoma draw new businesses, citing the state’s affordable energy as a competitive advantage.
What this means for Oklahoma
If the American Energy and Mineral Infrastructure Act advances, Oklahoma could see faster approvals for oil, gas, and renewable projects, potentially creating jobs and reinforcing the state’s reputation as an energy hub. Local business leaders have long advocated for reduced regulatory delays, and Armstrong’s effort aligns with those calls.
While the bill still faces hurdles in the House, the senator’s push underscores a broader push from Oklahoma’s congressional delegation to protect the state’s economic interests at the federal level.
Original reporting: KTUL 8 (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
