#United States #Washington #State Financial Officers #Look To The States #O.J. Oleka

Introduction

On October 28, 2025, the State Financial Officers Foundation (SFOF) unveiled a new initiative called "Look To The States" (LTTS), marking a significant development in their ongoing mission to bolster financial freedom and security for American citizens. This 501(c)4 organization aims to enhance the efforts of State Financial Officers (SFOs) as they advocate against politically motivated corporate activism.

Background

SFOF has established itself as a leader in advocating for fiscal responsibility, launching campaigns against what they term "woke capitalism"—a term used to describe companies that engage in political activism tied to social justice, environmental policies, and other ideological agendas. With LTTS, the SFOF seeks to strengthen these efforts, unifying the resources of State Financial Officers and expanding their impact through grassroots advocacy and strategic media engagement.

The Vision Behind LTTS

Dr. O.J. Oleka, the Chief Executive Officer of SFOF, highlighted the importance of this new group during the launch announcement: "Look To The States will empower State Financial Officers with unprecedented grassroots support and media resources to promote free market principles. This initiative ensures a stronger voice against left-leaning political agendas, which have largely gone unchallenged in the financial sector."

The establishment of LTTS reflects the growing concern among SFOs about how corporate activism can negatively influence the economic landscape, legislative processes, and financial markets. By addressing these issues, LTTS aims to safeguard taxpayer interests and preserve the integrity of the financial system.

The Goals of LTTS

The primary objectives of LTTS include:
1. Fighting Corporate Activism: The organization intends to combat the influence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and any anti-competitive political agendas that could undermine financial markets.
2. Empowering State Financial Officers: LTTS will equip SFOs, who represent over 170 million Americans, with essential tools and strategies needed to confront inappropriate corporate behaviors that threaten economic freedom.
3. Promoting Cultural Change: By raising awareness and building a coalition, LTTS aims to shift the cultural narrative surrounding financial governance and encourage more conservative, pro-growth policies that benefit consumers and taxpayers.

A Survey of Trust

In a notable survey released earlier this year, it was revealed that Americans hold greater trust in their state financial officers compared to governors, state legislators, and even the U.S. Congress. This backing provides a solid foundation for LTTS as it seeks to leverage this trust in advocating for pro-growth policies and financial freedom.

A Collective Effort

Utah Treasurer Marlo Oaks, serving as the National Chairman of SFOF, reinforced the significance of this initiative: "It is our duty as State Financial Officers to protect taxpayer interests and advocate for financial markets free from political manipulation. Look To The States will bolster our efforts and provide the tools necessary to advance fiscal responsibility and growth-focused policies."

The collaborative nature of LTTS marks a new chapter for the SFOF and reinforces its commitment to transparency and accountability in financial governance.

Conclusion

The launch of "Look To The States" signifies a proactive stance against corporate political activism in the financial sector. As the SFOF seeks to unify and empower State Financial Officers, the overarching goal is clear: to advocate for the financial freedom and security of American citizens while promoting free-market principles amidst a shifting economic landscape. Through this initiative, SFOF is showing that it is not only willing to lead but also committed to ensuring that the voices of taxpayers, investors, and consumers are heard and respected.