Oklahoma governor makes pick to replace Mullin in Senate 

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) has appointed energy executive Alan Armstrong to represent the state in the Senate, replacing outgoing Sen. Markwayne Mullin, who was confirmed Monday to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  

At a Tuesday press conference announcing the appointment, Stitt hailed Armstrong, a third-generation Oklahoman, as a “strong business leader who understands the power of free markets and limited government” and is “strongly aligned” with President Trump on energy policy. 

“Alan views this appointment not as a political opportunity but really as public service,” Stitt said, noting that Armstrong will have to step down from the board of Williams Companies and “a bunch of different commitments” to serve his state. 

Under state law, Stitt had 30 days to appoint someone from Mullin’s party to temporarily fill the seat after the senator left his post. The Senate confirmed Mullin in a 54-45 vote on Monday, with two Democrats joining Republicans to approve him to replace Kristi Noem at DHS. He was set to be sworn in Tuesday afternoon. 

Armstrong will be asked to pledge not to run for a full term after temporarily filling the vacancy — a unique element of Oklahoma law that quickly sparked chatter around potential candidates for this fall, when Mullin was set to seek reelection.

Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) and Rep. Kevin Hern (R-Okla.) both teased potential bids, but Bice declined after Hern launched his campaign earlier this month.

The primary election will take place on June 16. Candidates must file to run during the three-day filing period from April 1-3. 

“I will admit to you, I’m a little bit — feel like I’m stepping off into the abyss, with not exactly sure what I’m getting into. But I’m confident, got great team around me, and great support around me, and I really do look forward to making a difference for the short time that I’m in the Senate,” Armstrong said to applause.

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