Who is Gentner Drummond? AG touts record in heated governor's race

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond is positioning himself as the frontrunner in the June 16 GOP gubernatorial primary, emphasizing a tough-on-crime and anti-illegal-immigration platform aligned with former President Donald Trump. As governor, Drummond has vowed to enforce state and federal laws targeting undocumented immigrants, a stance he has defended as a legal obligation. His campaign has also included proposals like expanding state-funded day care, appealing to moderate Republicans despite criticism from hardline conservatives who label him a "RINO" (Republican in name only). Drummond, 62, has faced scrutiny over his past comments, including framing opposition to a religious charter school as a rejection of 'sharia law.' His family’s history in Oklahoma—including owning the state’s largest privately controlled landholdings (650 square miles)—contrasts with his current immigration rhetoric, which he distinguishes from his ancestors’ legal immigration path. Polls initially showed Drummond leading, but the race has tightened after Trump endorsed ex-state senator Mike Mazzei on May 29, complicating Drummond’s momentum. The campaign has been marred by attack ads, prompting Drummond to sue dark money groups over false claims, including an ad accusing him of supporting a "'trans queen' story time." Despite raising $4.3 million—the most among candidates—his campaign reported only $506,000 remaining as of late May, raising concerns about funding for the final stretch. With nine candidates in the primary, no single candidate has yet secured over 50% support, meaning the top two could advance to an August runoff. Drummond’s legal background and conservative platform have defined his bid, but his appeals to broader Republican voters—such as day care expansion—have drawn mixed reactions. His lawsuit against unspecified groups over misleading ads highlights the aggressive tactics shaping the race, while his financial constraints add pressure as the primary approaches. The outcome will determine Oklahoma’s next governor, with implications for state policies on immigration, education, and law enforcement.