Oklahoma’s controversial State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, has announced his resignation, ending a tenure marked by fierce political battles, national headlines, and a recent criminal investigation.
A Shocking Exit: Walters Steps Down
Multiple sources confirm Walters will officially step down on Friday, September 26, with Governor Kevin Stitt expected to appoint a replacement soon. Walters told Fox News he’s accepted the CEO role at the
Teacher Freedom Alliance, an anti-union advocacy group, signaling a shift from public office to private sector activism.
This move comes after months of speculation about Walters’ future, including rumors he might run for governor in 2026—a decision he never formally announced. Insiders say Walters’ resignation was accelerated by mounting legal and political pressure.
Scandal and Investigation: The TV Incident
Walters’ departure follows a high-profile investigation into allegations that images of nude women appeared on a television in his office during a meeting with State Board of Education members. Walters has denied the accusations, claiming they are part of a political smear campaign orchestrated by Governor Stitt and dissenting board members.
Emails reveal Walters sought legal counsel to “minimize the likelihood of criminal charges being filed” as Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna reviews the law enforcement report on the incident. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office are actively involved, with possible outcomes ranging from criminal charges to legislative impeachment proceedings.
Polarizing Legacy: MAGA Politics and Culture Wars
Walters rose to national prominence for his
hyperconservative education agenda, closely aligning himself with Donald Trump and right-wing organizations. His tenure saw:
- Efforts to place Bibles endorsed by Trump in every classroom
- Advocacy for publicly funded religious charter schools, which the Supreme Court ultimately blocked
- Promotion of conservative online curricula, including partnerships with PragerU
- Over 400 national media appearances, often railing against “liberal propaganda” and teachers’ unions
Just days before his resignation, Walters pushed for Turning Point USA clubs in every Oklahoma high school, vowing to “fight back against the liberal propaganda, pushed by the radical left, and the teachers’ union”.
What’s Next for Oklahoma Schools?
Governor Stitt is expected to appoint a new superintendent, with former state representative Mark McBride reportedly under consideration. McBride told reporters he hasn’t discussed the role with the governor but would “probably accept the position” if offered.
Walters’ exit leaves Oklahoma’s education system at a crossroads, with lawmakers, educators, and parents divided over the direction of school policy. The investigation into Walters’ conduct remains ongoing, and the fallout could shape state politics for years to come.
Expert Commentary
As a journalist who’s covered Oklahoma politics for over a decade, I’ve rarely seen a state education leader generate this much national attention—or controversy. Walters’ blend of culture war rhetoric and aggressive policy changes made him a lightning rod, but ultimately, the scandals and legal scrutiny proved too much to weather.
The next superintendent will inherit a deeply polarized system, with urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and the role of politics in public education.
Actionable Takeaways
-
Watch for Governor Stitt’s appointment announcement—the next superintendent could signal a major shift in education policy.
-
Follow the ongoing investigation—criminal charges or legislative action could set new precedents for state officials.
-
Expect continued debate over curriculum, religious influence, and standardized testing in Oklahoma schools.
Sources
1. State Superintendent Ryan Walters has announced his resignation ...
2. In The Know: Ryan Walters requested attorney to 'minimize the ...
3. Oklahoma's MAGA-Loving School Superintendent Ryan Walters Is ...
4. Allegations against Ryan Walters lead to investigation, accusations
5. Ryan Walters resigning as Oklahoma state schools superintendent
6. Deriding media and the 'peanut gallery,' Walters touts new teacher ...
7. State Supt. Walters clocks over 400 national appearances amid ban ...
