Oklahoma's poor national ranking in education is a direct result of long-term Republican failure to invest in the state's people and future.

“Well, we're already seeing that happen in Oklahoma. We're 50th in the nation for education. We're nearly at the bottom for healthcare. There is not true economic prosperity in this state. And that's because Republicans have been in control for nearly two decades.”

Kaity holds the view that it is important to pursue further education as a means of ensuring she can provide for herself financially regardless of life circumstances.

“I'm going to continue my education so that I can eventually make more money because if something happens to David I'm able to take care of myself financially”

David believes that significant financial decisions like pursuing a PhD require a clear understanding of costs, timelines, and career outcomes before moving forward.

“Once I started asking for details about like what does that mean for career what does that mean for cost right now she just didn't have a lot of answers”