Republican Kevin Stitt will become Oklahoma's 28th governor in January, following his election win on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the governor-elect visited The Oklahoman's video studio to discuss his plans for the future.
You can watch the entire interview in the video above. Below is an edited transcript of the interview.
What mandate do you take to the governor’s office?
"People are demanding change, they are so ready for an outsider, a fresh set of eyes, an innovative set of eyes, new ideas on the state’s problems. And that’s what I’ve told people, that we don’t have any different issues in Oklahoma than they have in Tennessee, or Texas, or Arkansas, or any other state. So, there is no reason we are at the bottom of all of these categories.
"So, to me, we’ve got some structural problems and ... I think we have some accountability issues on how we deliver services. We have to to do a better job of getting our dollars into the classroom, into the education system, making sure we have high standards and getting (money) into our roads and bridges and our health care system. But also setting up the policies that are going to be pro business, so we can actually diversify our economy and start growing like other states around us."
What can Oklahomans expect in having a CEO as governor?
"When you look at these 120 (state) agencies, one of the main things I’ve talked about is ... giving the (governor the) authority to hire and fire the agency heads. And that’s not to be a bad guy, but it's to create accountability. You start looking at metrics, you look at what other states are doing, how they are having better outcomes in their education, how they are having better outcomes in their health care, ... all that stuff is what I know how to do, and that’s why I think I won this election.
"We have to have somebody who understand , whether you are the governor or the CEO, you can’t dig into the weeds to make every decision, you have to be able to manage it, set up the right structure, hire the smartest people, and those are the things that ... I am now focused on, getting the right people around me to help me lead this state."
How will handle the roadblocks that come as you try to bring business principles to government?
"I can't do this by myself, I know I can’t. So, I've already started reaching out to all 101 House members and all 48 senators. Even our federal delegation, I’ll do things differently (with them). I called Kendra Horn this morning, had a great conversation. I told her congratulations and I want her to know that she has a seat at the table. I’m going to lean on (the federal delegation) to make sure that they are letting me know what happens in Washington, D.C.
"The other thing is I am going to communicate directly to the people of Oklahoma. Maybe doing tele-town halls, and I’m going to explain to Oklahomans that here is what we need to do to move forward. There's always going to be a special interests that try to twist the facts and try to deceive Oklahomans, saying we don’t need to do that, let’s keep it the way it is. But I’m going to go directly to the people and say here’s what is happening and here’s why they don’t want it to change and here’s why we need to change it to move our state forward."
What are the next few weeks going to look like for you?
"I’ll bring in a lot of outside consultants and people (who can) dig into the metrics and what is happening in other states around us.
"Right now, for the next 60 days, it’s about setting that strategy. I’ll be announcing our transition team, announcing some key hires. It's about hiring the best most qualified people at this point, and then getting our legislative agenda rolled out.
"We are not starting flat footed here, we have had for months now people working behind the scenes on transition.
How do plan to bring Democrats to the table?
"I’m going to be the governor for all 4 million Oklahomans. So, whether you voted for me or you voted for my opponent, now we are all Oklahoamns.
"I'm not a partisan person. I've been reaching out to the Republicans and the Democrats. I’m a pragmatist. I just see a problem and I want to go fix it. (Democrats) have great ideas from that side of the aisle. It doesn't have t be partisan in Oklahoma. Let national politics be partisan, but not in Oklahoma, not on my watch."
<figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-d63e69585aa0114adabedd1f87149b67.jpg" alt="Photo - Oklahoma Republican Governor-elect, Kevin Stitt, left, and his wife, Sarah Stitt, greet supporters during a watch party in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)" title="Oklahoma Republican Governor-elect, Kevin Stitt, left, and his wife, Sarah Stitt, greet supporters during a watch party in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)"><figcaption>Oklahoma Republican Governor-elect, Kevin Stitt, left, and his wife, Sarah Stitt, greet supporters during a watch party in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams)</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ce3be1d0d8d7849a9c3bf2775462431b.jpg" alt="Photo - Mike Ryder wears his patriotic hat as he cast his vote on election day at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="Mike Ryder wears his patriotic hat as he cast his vote on election day at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>Mike Ryder wears his patriotic hat as he cast his vote on election day at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-0081e8c3ec8050062cd6d3cadbe2e3a5.jpg" alt="Photo - John Marx reads over the sample ballot before casting his vote on election day at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="John Marx reads over the sample ballot before casting his vote on election day at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>John Marx reads over the sample ballot before casting his vote on election day at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-526f3a2a6749a2db0b2652c3ddee2bba.jpg" alt="Photo - Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
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"><figcaption>Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ddae56dfe7759f3161723124e61191de.jpg" alt="Photo - Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-9019a20cb276c7e90caf39eb599c6c11.jpg" alt="Photo - Paulette Brown fills out her ballot with other voters at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="Paulette Brown fills out her ballot with other voters at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>Paulette Brown fills out her ballot with other voters at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-2cff94ce8df8cec352121690519edb73.jpg" alt="Photo - Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>Voters line up to cast their ballots at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-84154fe8c9ff245769148535a4f4cb64.jpg" alt="Photo - Voters gather at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018, to cast their ballots on election day. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="Voters gather at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018, to cast their ballots on election day. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>Voters gather at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018, to cast their ballots on election day. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-61eb0f2df72fba83bae47dafd76d8e03.jpg" alt="Photo - Kelly Whitehead holds her son Xander while she votes at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
" title="Kelly Whitehead holds her son Xander while she votes at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
"><figcaption>Kelly Whitehead holds her son Xander while she votes at the International Pentecostal Assembly in Yukon, Okla. on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman
</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-09ec1341cb60acb17ccdf8bb43f80976.jpg" alt="Photo - Former state Sen. Anastasia Pittman, pictured here in November, is among 14 former candidates for public office being sued by the Oklahoma Ethics Commission. [The Oklahoman archives]" title="Former state Sen. Anastasia Pittman, pictured here in November, is among 14 former candidates for public office being sued by the Oklahoma Ethics Commission. [The Oklahoman archives]"><figcaption>Former state Sen. Anastasia Pittman, pictured here in November, is among 14 former candidates for public office being sued by the Oklahoma Ethics Commission. [The Oklahoman archives]</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-809c46902e61455c639a48fc6267a500.jpg" alt="Photo - Anastasia Pittman talks with supporters during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. [Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman archives]" title="Anastasia Pittman talks with supporters during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. [Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman archives]"><figcaption>Anastasia Pittman talks with supporters during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. [Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman archives]</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-6704c4bffeb7ee6dc37f293661716737.jpg" alt="Photo - People cheer during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="People cheer during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>People cheer during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-d903a853672b291d0612d6e7ea92e1c6.jpg" alt="Photo - Former Oklahoma governor George Nigh speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Former Oklahoma governor George Nigh speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Former Oklahoma governor George Nigh speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-d6812b0134fde7f2132054655e6c8d5b.jpg" alt="Photo - Former Oklahoma governor George Nigh speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Former Oklahoma governor George Nigh speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Former Oklahoma governor George Nigh speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-7cf06de13037b3d652c0c033cd7fab11.jpg" alt="Photo - Cathy and Sean Cummings speak during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Cathy and Sean Cummings speak during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Cathy and Sean Cummings speak during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-3cac12c51f9c997d208b17fe4fa4534d.jpg" alt="Photo - Mark Myles speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Mark Myles speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Mark Myles speaks during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-475192882e260d49249545ccad2d24f7.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson hugs Anastasia Pittman following a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson hugs Anastasia Pittman following a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson hugs Anastasia Pittman following a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-fe0b3150d2067352dedbad3d0ea16eef.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-a7506e0136487f112316b4fd25696758.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-39f76ef3338f37c6c6dd15713fcfe388.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson leaves the podium after giving a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-3b2335999755f912ad7c8f3886c56db0.jpg" alt="Photo - Supporters react as Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Supporters react as Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Supporters react as Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-daaa7739f7101cb5de0f4cfd116001c0.jpg" alt="Photo - Supporters react as Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Supporters react as Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Supporters react as Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-21abae44af0d16ea78bf6df2e69275e3.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson walks to the podium to give a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson walks to the podium to give a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson walks to the podium to give a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ce6703801ec24657be81cc6a4d1029ca.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-213d4eeb380b16ba83a501f626f70021.jpg" alt="Photo - Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman" title="Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman"><figcaption>Drew Edmondson gives a concession speech after losing the governor's race to Republican Kevin Stitt during a watch party for Drew Edmondson and the democratic party at the Embassy Suites in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman</figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-0cf47aee23301011ffc2c51d4b947641.jpg" alt="Photo - The expressions on the faces of Chad Perry and his wife, Mylea, reveal their disappointment with the election numbers being shown on a large screen as they gather with other Edmondson supporters in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center during the watch party for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Drew Edmondson Tuesday night, Nov. 6, 2018. Edmondson was defeated by Republican Kevin Stitt. The Oklahoma City couple volunteered for the Edmondson campaign and said they worked hard for the past four weeks in an effort to get him elected. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman " title="The expressions on the faces of Chad Perry and his wife, Mylea, reveal their disappointment with the election numbers being shown on a large screen as they gather with other Edmondson supporters in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center during the watch party for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Drew Edmondson Tuesday night, Nov. 6, 2018. Edmondson was defeated by Republican Kevin Stitt. The Oklahoma City couple volunteered for the Edmondson campaign and said they worked hard for the past four weeks in an effort to get him elected. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>The expressions on the faces of Chad Perry and his wife, Mylea, reveal their disappointment with the election numbers being shown on a large screen as they gather with other Edmondson supporters in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center during the watch party for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Drew Edmondson Tuesday night, Nov. 6, 2018. Edmondson was defeated by Republican Kevin Stitt. The Oklahoma City couple volunteered for the Edmondson campaign and said they worked hard for the past four weeks in an effort to get him elected. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-f02ce87228d88377572bb7e516e625a4.jpg" alt="Photo - A man views election results on his phone at a table in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center during the watch party for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Drew Edmondson Tuesday night, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman " title="A man views election results on his phone at a table in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center during the watch party for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Drew Edmondson Tuesday night, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>A man views election results on his phone at a table in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center during the watch party for Democratic gubernatorial candidate Drew Edmondson Tuesday night, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-16521a27dba4ac396eb135dd1b703b76.jpg" alt="Photo - Taylor Stephens an Oklahoma State University student from Claremore, Okla., checks election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Taylor Stephens an Oklahoma State University student from Claremore, Okla., checks election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Taylor Stephens an Oklahoma State University student from Claremore, Okla., checks election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-725ac5b033ac93ebfd2c287d0767818a.jpg" alt="Photo - Preston Parks, left a University of Oklahoma student from Stratford, Okla., and Justin Vakulick an OU student from Blanchard, Okla., check election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Preston Parks, left a University of Oklahoma student from Stratford, Okla., and Justin Vakulick an OU student from Blanchard, Okla., check election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Preston Parks, left a University of Oklahoma student from Stratford, Okla., and Justin Vakulick an OU student from Blanchard, Okla., check election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-9d822273f63a15c16ceec4206c4110a8.jpg" alt="Photo - People wait for election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="People wait for election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>People wait for election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-e0e8d3c7d647180aebf0993146050216.jpg" alt="Photo - Abby LaForge, left, and Leann Stanton, both of Chickasha, Okla., watch election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Abby LaForge, left, and Leann Stanton, both of Chickasha, Okla., watch election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Abby LaForge, left, and Leann Stanton, both of Chickasha, Okla., watch election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-04496505026eccd733a017f107172b61.jpg" alt="Photo - Glen Mulready speaks after winning the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner race during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Glen Mulready speaks after winning the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner race during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Glen Mulready speaks after winning the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner race during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-42427efde6125fa5cbdab97542a236fb.jpg" alt="Photo - Caleb McQuay of Skiatook, Okla., watches election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Caleb McQuay of Skiatook, Okla., watches election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Caleb McQuay of Skiatook, Okla., watches election results during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-0a522b879328769e27a095fa2db528e6.jpg" alt="Photo - A crowd cheers as they watch election results during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="A crowd cheers as they watch election results during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>A crowd cheers as they watch election results during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-25a1e00f796ad1137c06fa7c01380683.jpg" alt="Photo - Glen Mulready speaks after winning the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Glen Mulready speaks after winning the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Glen Mulready speaks after winning the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-a8fd789c2247fd16edeaef8c81aedbf2.jpg" alt="Photo - Raphala Taylor of Norman cheers during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Raphala Taylor of Norman cheers during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Raphala Taylor of Norman cheers during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-0e959d439703d030725f05d5ae7bdcb6.jpg" alt="Photo - Leslie Osborn talks after winning the race for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Leslie Osborn talks after winning the race for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Leslie Osborn talks after winning the race for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ba88a2ee45e03af76b7ef4126d28187d.jpg" alt="Photo - Leslie Osborn walks to the mic after winning the race for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Leslie Osborn walks to the mic after winning the race for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Leslie Osborn walks to the mic after winning the race for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-4ce37a9430da8fcf00e1608a0ba2e162.jpg" alt="Photo - Kevin Stitt gestures after giving his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Kevin Stitt gestures after giving his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Kevin Stitt gestures after giving his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-02781987e8f8e7f503fe8b84f2d4488a.jpg" alt="Photo - Joy Hofmeister walks to the mic during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Joy Hofmeister walks to the mic during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Joy Hofmeister walks to the mic during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-e879438cb34890948a294ec1a716df19.jpg" alt="Photo - State Schools Superintendent Joy Hofmeister " title=" State Schools Superintendent Joy Hofmeister "><figcaption> State Schools Superintendent Joy Hofmeister </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-94c524452b5ea227dfec0b1adce276d9.jpg" alt="Photo - Kevin Stitt shakes hands after giving his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Kevin Stitt shakes hands after giving his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Kevin Stitt shakes hands after giving his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-154da862b35de2be9244a6a08c4f04cb.jpg" alt="Photo - Cindy Byrd speaks after wining the race for the Oklahoma State Auditor during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Cindy Byrd speaks after wining the race for the Oklahoma State Auditor during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Cindy Byrd speaks after wining the race for the Oklahoma State Auditor during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-a63310c6f3d39674ad57cc138452c59f.jpg" alt="Photo - Kevin and Sarah Stitt take the stage during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Kevin and Sarah Stitt take the stage during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Kevin and Sarah Stitt take the stage during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-46df0795b0af57473e8848f80433ea19.jpg" alt="Photo - Kevin and Sarah Stitt take the stage during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Kevin and Sarah Stitt take the stage during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Kevin and Sarah Stitt take the stage during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-a74d3ae460d7a750e4127e3b25cad8c5.jpg" alt="Photo - Kevin Stitt gestures as he gives his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Kevin Stitt gestures as he gives his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Kevin Stitt gestures as he gives his acceptance speech during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-8e7feaf6f7c8a32925bf26d0c159b328.jpg" alt="Photo - Matt Pinnell takes the stage after wining the race for lieutenant governor during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Matt Pinnell takes the stage after wining the race for lieutenant governor during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Matt Pinnell takes the stage after wining the race for lieutenant governor during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-06f5d25c4f78d265b040673e30133ce4.jpg" alt="Photo - Mike Hunter speaks after winning the Oklahoma Attorney General race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Mike Hunter speaks after winning the Oklahoma Attorney General race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Mike Hunter speaks after winning the Oklahoma Attorney General race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-85c1c6d2b2964ff36a83a9cf39836f71.jpg" alt="Photo - Mike Hunter speaks after winning the Oklahoma Attorney General race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Mike Hunter speaks after winning the Oklahoma Attorney General race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Mike Hunter speaks after winning the Oklahoma Attorney General race during the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ba6e142b24af7eac510b6563404017ec.jpg" alt="Photo - Matt Pinnell gives his acceptance speech after wining the race for lieutenant governor during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Matt Pinnell gives his acceptance speech after wining the race for lieutenant governor during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Matt Pinnell gives his acceptance speech after wining the race for lieutenant governor during the Republican election night watch party watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure><figure><img src="//cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-b67581bcb1f9aedd3b5b54fe4ec89288.jpg" alt="Photo - Matt Pinnell waits to take the stage before giving his acceptance speech at the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman " title="Matt Pinnell waits to take the stage before giving his acceptance speech at the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman "><figcaption>Matt Pinnell waits to take the stage before giving his acceptance speech at the Republican election night watch party for the 2018 elections at the Bricktown Events Center in Oklahoma City, Nov. 6, 2018. Photo by Bryan Terry, The Oklahoman </figcaption></figure>
Ben Felder
Ben Felder is an investigative reporter for The Oklahoman. A native of Kansas City, Ben has lived in Oklahoma City since 2010 and covered politics, education and local government for the Oklahoma Gazette before joining The Oklahoman in 2016....
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