Shannon earns nearly 54 percent in six-candidate field, advances to November general election

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — T.W. Shannon won the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma Tuesday night, earning nearly 54 percent of the vote in a six-candidate primary and securing the nomination without a runoff.

Shannon now advances to the November 3 general election, where he will face Democrat Kelly Forbes.

“I am humbled by the trust Oklahoma voters placed in me tonight,” Shannon said. “This campaign has always been about the future of our state and the opportunities we can create for the next generation. I believe Oklahoma’s best days are ahead, and I’m grateful to everyone who has joined us in building toward that future.”

A sixth-generation Oklahoman, Shannon has built a career spanning government, business and public service. He made history as the youngest Speaker of the Oklahoma House and the first African American and Chickasaw to hold the position. His experience also includes serving as an Oklahoma Transportation Commissioner, a community bank CEO and a senior advisor in President Donald Trump’s administration.

Looking ahead, Shannon outlined his priorities for the office of Lieutenant Governor:

“As Lieutenant Governor, I want to help bring new jobs and investment to Oklahoma, support the businesses and industries already creating opportunity here and promote our state across the country and around the world,” Shannon said. “We have incredible people, abundant resources and strong communities. Our job is to build on those strengths and make sure the next generation has every reason to build its future right here in Oklahoma.”

Shannon also thanked his family, campaign team, volunteers and supporters across the state, as well as the voters who participated in the Republican primary.

“To everyone who supported our campaign, thank you. And to those who supported one of my opponents, I hope to earn your support as we move forward,” Shannon said. “The primary is behind us. Now it’s time to come together around Oklahoma’s future and the tremendous opportunity in front of us.”

The general election will be held November 3, 2026.