Oklahoma state Representative Cyndi Munson, a Democrat from Oklahoma City, publicly criticized recent appointments and associated compensation within Governor Kevin Stitt’s administration, alleging a pattern of high salaries for positions filled by individuals previously connected to the governor. The criticism follows the announcement of three appointments made by Stitt on September 11, 2025: Dustin Hilliary as Senior Advisor, David Ostrowe as Chief Operating Officer and Secretary, and Donelle Harder initially as Secretary of State.
Munson’s concerns center on the financial implications of these appointments, particularly as Stitt enters the final year and a half of his second term. While specific salary figures were not immediately available, Munson indicated that the cumulative cost of these positions, combined with existing administrative salaries, represents a significant expenditure of state funds.
Governor Stitt defended the appointments, stating that they were strategically chosen to strengthen leadership and drive operational excellence. “We successfully launched this administration by bringing a fresh set of eyes from Oklahoma’s business community, and we will finish the same way,” Stitt said in a press release. “These three outstanding Oklahomans bring diverse strengths.”
Dustin Hilliary, co-owner of Hilliary Communications, will serve as Senior Advisor and chief negotiator with the state legislature. Hilliary has a background in broadband, media, and telecommunications in rural Oklahoma and previously served on the State Regents for Higher Education. David Ostrowe, appointed as Chief Operating Officer, previously held the position of Secretary of Digital Transformation and Administration during Stitt’s first term. He stated his intention to continue efforts to improve government efficiency, and transparency.
Donelle Harder’s appointment initially as Secretary of State was complicated by a constitutional issue. Harder announced on October 2, 2025, that she did not meet the ten-year requirement of state voter registration stipulated in the Oklahoma Constitution for the role. She subsequently transitioned to the position of Chief of Staff, a move that did not require the same voter registration criteria. Harder previously served as a communications professional within the Stitt administration.
The appointments come after the resignations of two previous top officials, prompting Stitt to tap individuals familiar with his administration to fill the vacancies. The Governor’s office has not responded to specific inquiries regarding the salaries associated with these new roles, citing ongoing budgetary considerations.
Representative Munson has requested a detailed accounting of administrative salaries and a justification for the compensation levels, arguing that transparency is crucial for public trust. As of Monday, February 23, 2026, the Governor’s office has not publicly released the requested information.
