Oklahoma City native Julia Kirt was elected to the Oklahoma State Senate representing District 30 in 2018. In January 2025, she began her term as the Senate Minority Leader, making her the first working mom to lead a legislative caucus in Oklahoma. We caught up with Senator Kirt to discuss work-life balance as a public servant and how the state can best support working families.
What first motivated you to run for elected office?
The pivotal time was when my kids started school, and almost immediately, they were facing cuts to programs and teachers. I got really involved with parents at our school to advocate — especially for arts education. When I learned more over the years about why those cuts were happening, it all led back to state leadership. It made me think there had to be a better way to make these decisions.
Why have you stayed in public office? What’s your ‘why’ today?
I really love when constituents call and we’re able to help them with a state service or solve a problem. If someone identifies a problem, I don’t just want to fix it for them — I want to improve the system they were up against.
What does it mean to be a mom in politics today?
I’m the first state legislative caucus leader who’s also a mom. We’ve had amazing women in the past, but they just happen to not have had kids at the time. Some of my colleagues who are parents, their kids are in another city half the week, and that would be incredibly difficult. But being local also means that I’m always on at work and at home. I think it just shows that these struggles don’t go away, no matter what role you’re in. The expectations for moms are still there.
What does work-life balance look like for you as a senator, caucus leader and a mom?
When I decided to run, my kids were five and eight. Now they’re 14 and 17, which helps. I have two retired grandmothers in town, friends and family who pitch in, and a very supportive spouse. That’s the only reason I can do this. My family is all in. But balance? It’s never quite right. I always say I’m like a flashlight — I can’t shine in every direction at once. If I’m doing a great job in the legislature, then I’m probably missing something that needs to happen for my kids or my home.
How have your children been impacted by your public role?
They’ve literally grown up in it. They’ve seen me grapple with issues. They’ve learned that policymaking is complex. That there are no easy decisions. And they’ve seen the human side of it.
What are your thoughts about the 2025 legislative session?
I’m deeply troubled by flat budgets for public education and cuts to programs that we know have worked. The previous state superintendent built up a counselor corps and helped school districts see the value of having more counselors in our schools. I think we’ve funded more mental health care, but if it’s not integrated with our schools, it isn’t as effective. Schools need resources to be able to address issues like suicide, because it’s a reality for our kids right now.
What is Oklahoma City doing well around family-positive work policies? Where can we improve?
I’m worried we haven’t done enough at the state level to address funding changes impacting childcare providers and families. We need more flexible childcare options. As a working mom, finding the right childcare was challenging for my family. We also need more after-school programs that can help address childcare needs for working parents while also giving kids access to literacy, athletics and other enrichment programming. I think our move toward remote and hybrid work is important. It reduces commute time and absenteeism. I’ve seen more OKC businesses doing this, and it’s so good for us.
What are some easy ways people can engage with the legislature?
If you have a responsive legislator, reach out to them. We’re here to serve the people who live in our districts. It could be a coffee or a meeting. You could ask them to come to your workplace if you want them to see something. If you don’t have a responsive legislator, find allies — join an issue-based group, your local chamber or other association that may have a relationship with that legislator. There’s amazing advocacy happening on important issues. It’s so important to be a part of groups and connect with others.
Favorite things to do at home as a family?
We eat together as much as possible. The second thing would be playing foursquare on our driveway.
Favorite things to do in the OKC Metro?
We like to go to Lake Overholser for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
