UMVA has learned that a dramatic shakeout has occurred in the Oklahoma Republican gubernatorial primary, with Trump-endorsed former state Sen. Mike Mazzei and Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond emerging as the top contenders for the August 25 runoff.
The surprise move comes after a crowded field of candidates vying to replace term-limited Gov. Kevin Stitt was whittled down, with Mazzei and Drummond edging out businessman Chip Keating and former Oklahoma House Speaker Charles McCall. Stitt, a prominent Republican leader, was term-limited and unable to seek re-election.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Trump's endorsement of Mazzei sent shockwaves through the already competitive contest, with the former president lauding Mazzei as a "MAGA warrior" who "will never let you down." This bold endorsement injected fresh uncertainty into the primary, further muddying the waters.
Mazzei's campaign is built around key issues, including eliminating state property taxes, shielding state lands from foreign purchasers, boosting the state's literacy rate, and rooting out waste and abuse in government. Notably, Mazzei previously served as Stitt's state budget director, providing him with valuable experience in governance.
However, some critics have targeted Mazzei for his association with Roger Stone, a polarizing conservative consultant and Trump ally. Stone's involvement in Mazzei's campaign sparked controversy, with some questioning the wisdom of hiring a figure with a history of FBI scrutiny.
In response to criticism, Mazzei emphasized that Stone is just one of many advisors on his team, and that his experience and knowledge of Washington, D.C. and the Trump agenda are valuable assets. Mazzei's confidence in his team and campaign strategy has resonated with Oklahoma voters.
Drummond, meanwhile, is running on his tough-on-crime record as attorney general, as well as his efforts to enforce immigration laws and his credentials as a fighter pilot. Drummond's military background and combat experience have earned him a reputation as a courageous and dedicated public servant.
A statement on Drummond's campaign website highlights his heroic actions during the Gulf War, where he led the first U.S. combat mission and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Drummond has positioned himself as a strong advocate for conservative values and a bulwark against what he sees as the Biden administration's overreach.
The remaining candidates, McCall and Keating, also ran notable campaigns. McCall focused on "family, faith, and moral leadership," while Keating emphasized public safety and his experience as a former law enforcement officer.
In the end, Mazzei and Drummond emerged as the frontrunners, setting up a showdown in the August 25 runoff that promises to be a defining moment in Oklahoma politics.
