Senate education leader Adam Pugh shifts focus to Oklahoma superintendent’s office

Senator Adam Pugh, a 10-year Republican lawmaker from Edmond, Oklahoma, is campaigning for the state superintendent position in the upcoming June 16 primary election. Known for authoring education policies like teacher pay raises and reforms to reading instruction laws, Pugh argues the role requires executive-level leadership of the state Department of Education. Pugh cites his experience in the U.S. Air Force, aerospace business ownership, and state Senate as qualifications, but stresses his perspective as a father of three public school students. He believes parental engagement—such as reading to children, helping with homework, and addressing behavior—is critical to academic success, warning that schools cannot compensate for home support gaps. As state superintendent, Pugh pledges to prioritize teacher respect and higher salaries, advocating for a $50,000 minimum starting wage to compete with neighboring states. He also supports expanding private school tax credits while opposing mandated religious instruction in public classrooms. The race includes six other Republican candidates, with Pugh emphasizing collaboration with teachers and parents. Democratic contenders include former Tulsa Board of Education member Jennettie Marshall and retired El Reno Superintendent Craig McVay. The position became open after former Superintendent Ryan Walters resigned early to lead an anti-union nonprofit, and interim Lindel Fields declined to run in 2026.