Final answer:
The working relationships between Oklahoma's Republican governors and their Democratic legislatures varied depending on whether there was divided government or unified government. Republican Governor Frank Keating achieved key accomplishments in welfare reform and education, while Governor Brad Henry focused on education funding and healthcare.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the early 1980s, Republican President Ronald Reagan and Democratic Speaker of the House Tip O'Neil worked together to pass legislation, although they had opposing views on several issues. Similarly, at the subnational level, the working relationships between Oklahoma's Republican governors and their Democratic legislatures have varied depending on whether there was divided government or unified government. When the governor's own party controls the legislature, they tend to have a smoother relationship and achieve more accomplishments.
For example, Republican Governor Frank Keating, who served from 1995 to 2003, had a Republican-controlled legislature during his first two terms, which allowed him to pass key legislation. One of his major accomplishments was welfare reform, which included implementing stricter work requirements for recipients and time limits for benefits. Keating also successfully advocated for education reform, including increased funding and standardized testing.
In contrast, during Governor Brad Henry's tenure from 2003 to 2011, there was divided government, with Democrats controlling the legislature. While there were challenges in achieving his policy agenda, Henry still had some successes. He focused on education funding and passed legislation that increased teacher salaries and provided for smaller class sizes. Henry also signed bills related to healthcare, such as expanding Medicaid eligibility.