It is no secret that voting, as well as elections in general in Oklahoma, are not well attended. A report from the University of Florida found that this state had the second lowest voter turnout during the 2024 general election, with Hawaii hosting the lowest. To help voters go into Tuesday’s election informed, The Collegian has decided to provide a cheatsheet describing the platforms of the top two candidates for some of the major elections in the state.
Mike Mazzei, Governor (R): The Republican candidate for governor previously served in the Oklahoma senate from 2004 to 2016, and was secretary of budget from 2019 to 2020. According to his campaign website, Mazzei plans to eliminate property taxes for seniors and veterans, as well as make Oklahoma a no-income-tax state. The website further describes the candidate’s commitment to “end wokeism in higher education” and create a Department of Government Efficiency for the state.
Cyndi Munson, Governor (D): The Democratic candidate for governor also has copious previous experience in state politics. Munson has continuously served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives since 2015, and became minority leader for the body in 2022. Munson’s website details her plans to institute mandatory paid family leave for the state and raise the minimum wage. The candidate has also concentrated on education, promising a pay raise for public school teachers and staff as well as providing free breakfast and lunch in schools statewide.
Kevin Hern, Senate (R): Hern has been the incumbent representative for Tulsa’s congressional district since 2018 and is now running for Senate. A report by News 9 described the candidate’s platform as “America First,” prioritizing issues like abortion, border security and Second Amendment rights. He has also advertised his endorsement from President Donald Trump.
N’Kiyla “Jasmine” Thomas, Senate (D): Thomas has no previous political experience, currently working as a nurse. She is also an active-duty military spouse. Her top issues are healthcare access, reproductive rights, the nursing shortage and education and special education, among others. Thomas has also been endorsed by political YouTube channel Mr. Beat.
Mark Tedford, U.S. House District One (R): Tedford has represented Jenks and South Tulsa as a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives since 2022. Tedford’s website lists his priorities, including lowering costs for working families by reducing inflationary spending, enforcing immigration law and defending faith, family and freedom. The website also describes the candidate’s support of cutting red tape for small businesses and “unleashing American energy production.”
John Croisant, U.S. House District One (D): Croisant has not held political office before running in this election. According to his website, Croisant was previously a local business owner, teacher and coach. The website emphasizes his support for expanding Medicaid access and repeal recent cuts to the program. Additionally, Croisant also supports a series of institutional changes, such as term limits for Congress and overturning Citizens United.
With the background and platform of these candidates in mind, go out and vote! More information about early voting can be found here, and polling stations for election day can be found through the voter portal.
