Capitol Connections: Postcards deliver a power message

Oklahoma Living readers sent 2,850+ postcards to lawmakers, showing strong statewide support for policies protecting reliable, affordable co-op power.

Oklahoma Living readers turned a simple ask into a statewide show of support for rural electric cooperatives during the 2026 legislative session.

In February, the magazine invited members to send postcards to their legislators, urging them to protect policies that ensure safe, affordable and reliable power. The response was strong: more than 2,850 postcards were submitted from across the state, reflecting broad engagement from co-op members who depend on reliable electricity every day.

Leading the effort were Verdigris Valley Electric Cooperative with 247 postcards, followed by Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative with 210, Canadian Valley Electric Cooperative with 185, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative with 181 and Central Rural Electric Cooperative with 161. In total, 12 of 30 cooperatives reached triple-digit participation, a clear sign of coordinated grassroots momentum.

The campaign reached nearly every corner of the Capitol. At least one postcard landed on the desk of 87.5% of Oklahoma senators and 74.26% of representatives, reinforcing the role electric cooperatives play in powering rural communities and local economies.

Among those hearing directly from constituents was Rep. Justin Humphrey, who received 58 postcards.

In a March 18 release, Humphrey noted, “Our co-ops are important to making sure we have that power ready at the touch of our fingertips. That’s why I’m thankful for each person who took the time to send me one of these cards.”

The postcard campaign shows when cooperative members speak up, policymakers listen. Member engagement helps ensure rural voices remain part of critical energy conversations at the state level.