Echols wins Republican nomination for Oklahoma attorney general: See results

Jon Echols defeated Jeff Starling to win the Republican nomination for Oklahoma attorney general, with 55% of the vote compared to Starling’s 45%. Decision Desk HQ and NBC News called the race at 8:16 p.m. on June 2, with 93% of precincts reporting. Echols, 46, previously served 12 years in the Oklahoma House, including as floor leader, while Starling, 51, was appointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt as secretary of energy and environment in 2024. The primary was dominated by Super PAC spending and self-funding, with Echols loaning his campaign $300,000 six weeks before the election and spending over $1.5 million, mostly on ads. Starling spent about $1 million and loaned his campaign $500,000. Both candidates have aligned with President Donald Trump politically. As attorney general, the winner will oversee key legal battles, including pollution settlements in the Illinois River Watershed and a lawsuit against an aluminum smelter in Inola. The office also handles federal-state disputes, such as sharing voter data with the Department of Justice or challenging federal policies in court. Echols will face Democrat Nick Coffey in the November 3 general election, part of the broader U.S. midterm elections. The attorney general’s role includes prosecuting state violations, representing Oklahoma in lawsuits, and addressing issues like tribal sovereignty and consumer protections in home insurance. The office’s influence extends to federal relations, as seen in past actions like supporting or opposing presidential directives. Echols emphasized his legislative experience, while Starling’s background in energy and litigation highlighted his private-sector expertise. Results remain preliminary, with final tallies pending full precinct reporting.