The Latest in Oklahoma: November 8, 2024
A&A Advocates
In Oklahoma’s 2024 election, over 1.5 million voters cast ballots, showing continued support for Donald Trump, who won 66% of the state’s vote. Tulsa elected Monroe Nichols as its first Black mayor, while Oklahoma Supreme Court justices Noma Gurich and James Edmondson were retained, but Yvonne Kauger lost her seat amid a heavily funded campaign opposing justices appointed by Democratic governors. Other key outcomes included the re-election of all five U.S. House representatives, Brian Bingman’s election to the Corporation Commission, Edmond voters rejecting a $231 million bond package, and the approval for OG&E to power a $3 billion data center project in Stillwater.
Oklahoma voters rejected State Question 833 with 61.6% opposing it. SQ 833 proposed allowing cities to create public infrastructure districts with taxing authority to fund projects like roads and parks, but critics found it vague and lacking safeguards. Meanwhile, State Question 834 passed with 80.7% support. SQ 834 amends the state constitution to state that only U.S. citizens are qualified voters, reinforcing the ban on noncitizen voting as a preventive measure against trends in other states.
Governor Kevin Stitt announced the launch of the Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives to enhance partnerships between the state, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits, helping them work more effectively with Oklahoma Human Services to support residents in need. The office will serve as a central resource, connecting organizations with state services, maintaining a repository of impactful programs, and recognizing those making positive community contributions.
In response to the recent tornadoes that struck Oklahoma City, the city has established outreach offices to assist affected residents. These offices provide resources and support for those impacted by the storms. Community members, including local food trucks, have also contributed by providing free meals to those in need. Residents are encouraged to utilize these services and stay informed through local news outlets for ongoing updates and support opportunities.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Oklahoma’s 2024 General Election is one for the history books,” said Oklahoma’s Secretary of the State Election Board, Paul Ziriax. “Unofficial results show that more Oklahomans cast a vote for President than any previous election. Voters set a new record for in-person early voting by more than 120,000. We also had the largest number of registered voters heading into this election since we began tracking this statistic in 2000.”
Update on Interim Studies
Interim studies continue as the deadline for agency rules approaches. To see updates, click the links to view House studies and Senate studies.
Oklahoma Election Results
Curious about other election results? View the official 2024 Oklahoma election results at this link.