Gentner Drummond Launches Candidacy for Oklahoma Governor Ahead of 2026 Election

Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma's Republican Attorney General, has announced his candidacy for governor. This announcement was made at the Osage County Fairgrounds in Pawhuska, near his family's ranch. Drummond, 61, aims to start the 2026 campaign season early in a predominantly Republican state. "I'm not running for governor so I can bow down to party bosses," stated Drummond, who is both a rancher and banker.

Drummond has a notable background as a US Air Force veteran, having flown numerous combat missions during the Gulf War in 1991. He highlighted his military service and his efforts as attorney general to shut down illegal marijuana operations. These operations increased after Oklahoma voters approved medical marijuana in 2018. Drummond also received early support from the Oklahoma State Fraternal Order of Police, a group with 6,000 members. Their executive board unanimously endorsed him, according to FOP president Mark Nelson.

Potential Candidates and Political Landscape

Drummond is the first official candidate in what is expected to be a competitive race to succeed Governor Kevin Stitt. Stitt cannot run again due to term limits. Other potential candidates include former state senator Mike Mazzei and State Superintendent Ryan Walters. Former House speaker Charles McCall and Lt Governor Matt Pinnell are also considered possible contenders.

Chip Keating, Stitt's former secretary of public safety and son of former governor Frank Keating, might also join the race. Pat McFerron, an experienced Republican pollster in Oklahoma, commented on Drummond's candidacy: "I would say that Drummond starts with the highest name ID of anyone we've discussed, and he has very few negatives, but it's way too early to handicap the field overall."

Drummond's Political Stance and Challenges

Drummond has occasionally disagreed with Governor Stitt on various issues. One significant disagreement involved Stitt's support for what would be the first publicly funded religious charter school in the US. Drummond argued before the state Supreme Court that the Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board violated laws when it approved this school.

Additionally, Drummond has been critical of Stitt's confrontational approach towards Native American tribes in Oklahoma. He has expressed support for fostering partnerships with these sovereign nations instead. Drummond's stance on these issues highlights his willingness to challenge his own party when necessary.

As the campaign unfolds, Drummond's military background and legal experience may play crucial roles in shaping his platform. His early endorsement from law enforcement could also bolster his appeal among voters seeking strong leadership.