WallBuilders Teachers Conference
Senator David Bullard of Oklahoma delivers a masterclass in constitutional governance with his groundbreaking reform of the state's initiative petition process. Having identified how progressive groups exploit ballot initiatives to liberalize conservative states, Bullard crafted Senate Bill 1027 to restore republican principles and strengthen pro-life protections.
The ballot initiative system, a Progressive Era remnant that creates direct democracy within states, has become the preferred weapon for liberal organizations seeking to bypass conservative legislatures. As Bullard explains, outside money and professional signature gatherers have previously succeeded in Oklahoma with measures for medical marijuana and Medicaid expansion. Now, they're targeting abortion rights.
Bullard's reform requires remarkable transparency and genuine grassroots support for any initiative. Petitions must use Oklahoma volunteers and Oklahoma money only. Critically, signatures must come from at least 20 counties rather than just Oklahoma City and Tulsa, preventing the 2.5% of counties from dictating policy to the other 97.5%. The bill ensures that truly statewide issues have statewide support.
Drawing from his background as an AP history teacher, Bullard articulates why this matters fundamentally to our system of government. Citing Article 4, Section 4 of the Constitution, he reminds us that America guarantees each state a republican form of government—not a democracy. The Founding Fathers "despised democracy," preferring representative government where elected officials make laws on citizens' behalf.
What makes this reform particularly impactful is the progressive reaction. Their fierce opposition to gathering signatures beyond urban centers reveals their strategy: using coastal money and urban voters to force policy changes on conservative states. As Bullard notes, "If they really want to know the truth, I would completely remove the initiative petition process."
This legislation presents a model for conservative states nationwide facing similar progressive tactics. By requiring initiatives to demonstrate broader geographic support and relying on in-state resources, states can better preserve their values against well-funded outside influences determined to reshape state policy through direct democracy—a concept our founders rejected.
How will you help preserve republican government in your state? Consider supporting candidates who understand these constitutional distinctions and recognize the progressive playbook targeting conservative strongholds.
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
Ridiculous History
History is beautiful, brutal and, often, ridiculous. Join Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown as they dive into some of the weirdest stories from across the span of human civilization in Ridiculous History, a podcast by iHeartRadio.