Transcript Staff
OU senior Matt Hecox announced plans Tuesday to seek the Democratic nomination for State House District 44.
The seat is currently held by state Rep. Bill Nations, D-Norman. Term limits prevent Nations from running again.
Hecox, 22, said, if elected, education would be his priority issue.
"We must give our citizens the best possible education and one that will prepare and encourage them to go to college.I will always support legislation that will help Oklahoma get and keep the best teachers for our students."
Hecox, a Norman High graduate, is a member of Journey Church and a member of the Muskogee (Creek) tribe. He expects to be graduated from OU in May with a degree in history.
"My mother was a teacher at Kennedy Elementary School for 15 years and my father was a teacher and coach at Irving and Alcott Middle School for over 26 years," Hecox said. "Since I was a little boy, I have seen the lives that my parents have impacted, whether it was a student or one of my father's numerous athletes."
He said he wants to make a difference in the lives of people much like his parents have.
"A common theme that I notice when I talk to people about the government is that no one believes the government is actually doing what is right for the people, but only what benefits a political party or special interest group," Hecox said. "This is not right. If elected, I will always do what is right for the people of Oklahoma and not a political party or special interest group."
Hecox said he will study legislation and will never vote yes for a bill that will not benefit the people of Oklahoma in a positive way.
He listed issues facing the state as education, infrastructure, energy, high speed rail and the state budget.
"I know the odds are against me in winning this election because of my age, but I do believe I am the right person to represent the people of District 44 and Norman in the state house."
