Political Races Ignite Competition in Oklahoma and Beyond

Oklahoma’s Political Shifts

In Oklahoma, two significant political races are heating up. Governor Kevin Stitt faces term limits, and ex-Senator Markwayne Mullin has left his seat to become the Homeland Security secretary. Alan Armstrong, an energy executive, temporarily fills the Senate seat. However, state law prevents him from running for a full term. Republican Congressman Kevin Hern, endorsed by Trump, is competing against four other candidates in the Republican Senate primary.

The race for governor is even more crowded, with nine Republicans competing. If no candidate secures over 50% of the vote, an August 25 runoff will be necessary.

California’s Special Election

California will hold a special election to fill the term of former Representative Eric Swalwell. Swalwell resigned in April amid allegations of sexual misconduct, which he denies. A woman accused him of assaults in 2019 and 2024, claiming she was too intoxicated to consent. This resignation removed him from the gubernatorial race where he was a leading Democratic candidate.

Georgia’s Runoff Elections

In Georgia, runoffs are set for Senate and governor nominees. Republican Mike Collins, a self-described ‘MAGA warrior,’ is up against newcomer Derek Dooley in the Senate race. The winner will compete against Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff in November. Collins has Trump’s endorsement.

The gubernatorial primary pits Lt. Gov. Burt Jones against billionaire Rick Jackson. Jones has Trump’s support since last August. The winner takes on Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former Atlanta mayor, in the upcoming general election.

Voting in Washington, DC

Voting in Washington, DC, is underway. Democrats are deciding on a new mayor and a new delegate to Congress. This is the first opportunity for such a vote since 1990. These decisions come at a time of historical significance for the capital city.