The state convention of the OKGOP met this past weekend, to select leaders for the next two years. They also approved a fresh platform of policies for the Republican Party. Senator Nathan Dahm, of Broken Arrow, was selected on the 2nd ballot, after both he and former lawmaker, Sean Roberts of Fairfax gained over 40% of the first ballot, Defeating incumbent, AJ Farate'. Farate's 16% is the worst showing in decades, for an incumbent chair seeking a new term. The Vice Chair race which preceded, was settled quickly, when Wayne Hill captured nearly 60% of the 1st ballot voting. Hill was endorsed by both Ferate' & Roberts. Others in the Vice Chair race were Michael Stopp & Paula Price, who each captured about 20%. The convention was held on the campus of Union High School, in Tulsa. Nearly 1000 delegates were registered, representing the 77 county parties and Young Republicans Clubs. |
Dispite outgoing chair Farate's failure to connect with the convention delegates, he is credited with restoring fiscal integrity through his fundraising success. Farate' has been the legal counsel for the OKGOP over the past decade.