OKLAHOMA CITY – House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, comments on the passing of former Congressman Wes Watkins:

"I am sorry to hear of today's passing of former Congressman Wes Watkins. Being an FFA state officer changed the trajectory of my life, and I know FFA had a similar impact on Congressman Watkins. I remember speaking with him on the day of my graduation from Oklahoma State University and he shared how important ag teachers were in his run for Congress. He had a heart for students and spent his life making Oklahoma better and we are grateful for his service - his legacy will live on long beyond his life while he was with us. My heart goes out to Lou and his family during this difficult time and we honor him today for all he accomplished for the state of Oklahoma, the countless Oklahomans he inspired and a life well-lived. Oklahoma is better thanks to his contributions."