As Oklahoma attorney general, it is not my job to formulate or implement Oklahoma's plan, but it is my job to preserve Oklahoma's right to do so - particularly when the Clean Air Act so clearly recognizes that Oklahomans, and not federal bureaucrats, are best situated to determine Oklahoma energy and environmental policies.

The quote by Scott Pruitt emphasizes the role of a state attorney general in defending state authority rather than creating or executing policy. Pruitt highlights that his primary responsibility was to preserve Oklahoma’s right to formulate its own energy and environmental strategies, asserting that the state, rather than the federal government, should have the primary say in such matters. This underscores a commitment to states’ rights and local decision-making.

Pruitt references the Clean Air Act to justify this position, pointing out that the law recognizes that Oklahomans are better positioned than federal bureaucrats to determine policies regarding energy and environmental regulation. This reflects a broader perspective that emphasizes local expertise and accountability, suggesting that residents and state officials are more attuned to the unique environmental, economic, and social conditions of their region.

The origin of this viewpoint comes from Pruitt’s tenure as Oklahoma Attorney General, where he frequently challenged federal regulations and defended state authority in court. His approach aligns with a long-standing political philosophy that stresses federalism, advocating for a balance of power in which states retain significant control over policies affecting their citizens and local industries.

Ultimately, the quote illustrates a legal and political stance that prioritizes state sovereignty in energy and environmental matters. Pruitt positions his role as a protector of state rights, emphasizing that while the attorney general does not craft policy, he ensures that Oklahoma retains the authority to make decisions that reflect the interests and values of its residents.