OPINION: Monroe Nichols is the Mayor Tulsa Needs for True Progress

Tulsa stands at the brink of transformative change. With burgeoning investments in technology, dynamic leadership in our educational institutions, and significant infrastructure projects underway, our city is poised to embrace new challenges and opportunities. To navigate these changes, we need a trusted mayor who will champion progress, not another four years of stagnation at City Hall. Hence, Tulsa’s next mayor should be Monroe Nichols; he’s the leader our city needs.

Having known Monroe for 20 years, I have witnessed his exemplary leadership on the field, in the classroom, and within the halls of state government. While his chief opponent may argue that he lacks local experience, this assertion could not be further from the truth. Monroe has been a dedicated grassroots community advocate, with experience in City Hall, as an elected member of the Tulsa Tech Board, and as the founder of an organization committed to empowering Tulsa’s youth. His unwavering commitment to youth and families is reflected in his campaign promise to establish an office at City Hall dedicated to these critical issues.

As a member of the Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education, I can confidently state that no other candidate has developed a comprehensive plan for advancing our schools like Monroe Nichols. His chief opponent has neither engaged with board members nor genuinely contributed to the progress attributed to our community and school leaders. Another contender’s support for State Superintendent Ryan Walters, coupled with an irresponsible bid for a dual role on the Board of Education, demonstrates a concerning lack of understanding and foresight.

Tulsa needs a mayor who will partner with Tulsa Public Schools—someone who has stood resolutely by us during our most challenging times, collaborated with board members to develop effective plans, and will firmly oppose detrimental state interference. Monroe Nichols is that leader.

A robust public school system is essential to harnessing the transformative potential of our city. Tulsa Remoters deserve a quality education system for their children. Our public schools must cultivate the skills necessary for workforce development. As we continue to build housing, public schools will significantly impact property values. Public schools need a steadfast advocate in the Mayor’s Office, and that champion is Monroe Nichols.

Let us propel Tulsa forward—a city for all and a city for the future. Let us unite and cast our votes for Monroe Nichols and make him our next Tulsa mayor.