Trump-backed Mike Mazzei competes for GOP bid for Oklahoma governor - USA TODAY

Mike Mazzei, a wealth manager with $1.6 billion in client assets and former Oklahoma state senator, is competing in the June 16 GOP primary for governor. He secured Donald Trump’s endorsement on May 29, 2026, citing his ‘America First’ platform, which includes eliminating the state income tax and reducing property taxes for seniors. Mazzei has loaned his campaign nearly $4 million to promote his plans, including overhauling education through ‘discipline and order in the classroom,’ though he lacks direct control over K-12 schools. The 60-year-old businessman has deep ties to Oklahoma politics, serving as Senate Finance chair and budget secretary under Governor Kevin Stitt. Before entering office, he worked in wealth management and supported Ronald Reagan’s 1984 campaign. His political career began in 2004 when he won 62% of the vote in a state Senate race, backed by former Governor Frank Keating and Tulsa Mayor Robert LaFortune. Mazzei’s campaign strategy hinges on his fiscal record, including slashing tax credits and stabilizing the state’s pension system. However, he faces eight other Republican rivals in the primary, with some holding stronger voter recognition. Political analysts describe him as a ‘dark horse’ contender, though his Trump endorsement may boost visibility ahead of the August 25 runoff. His background includes a military upbringing, a degree from Oral Roberts University, and a master’s from the College for Financial Planning. Married for 35 years, Mazzei and his wife have five children, including an adopted daughter from Russia and triplets born via fertility treatment. His campaign frames his vision as a ‘golden age of growth’ for Oklahoma, uniting conservatives around fiscal and cultural priorities. With the primary approaching, Mazzei’s ability to leverage Trump’s backing and his financial resources will determine whether he advances past June 16. Analysts note he could act as a spoiler, siphoning votes from better-established candidates like Chip Keating, son of his former ally Frank Keating.