By Sentinel Staff
Gov. Kevin Stitt has endorsed Broken Arrow Vice Mayor Christi Gillespie in the race for state Senate District 33.
Gillespie is vying to replace Sen. Nathan Dahm, who is term limited. Gillespie faces Shelley Gwartney in a the runoff election Aug. 27 to be the Republican candidate.
In the GOP primary Gillespie easily outdistanced the field with 44% of the vote in the newly re-drawn district, most of which lies in Broken Arrow. Gwartney finished second with 25%, overcoming a stiff challenge from Bill Bickerstaff as he garnered 21.9% for third place. Tim Brooks finished fourth in the contest with 8.7%.
“Christi Gillespie is a proven, conservative leader with the courage to stand up and make tough choices. When Covid hit, Christi was a voice of reason as Vice Mayor of Broken Arrow,” Stitt said in a statement.
“They didn’t shut the city down; they stayed open due to her leadership, and the city thrived. They’ve added jobs, kept crime down, and brought in new businesses during her time as Vice Mayor without raising your taxes. It’s why Broken Arrow is thriving.
“We need more conservatives in Oklahoma City who have her vision, courage, and principles. It’s why I’m giving her my full endorsement as she runs for state senate.”
“I am honored to have Governor Stitt’s endorsement,” said Gillespie in a statement announcing the endorsement. “In the State Senate, I will continue to fight for the values that have made Broken Arrow a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I look forward to bringing my experience and dedication to the State Capitol to ensure a brighter future for all Oklahomans.”
The winner between Gillespie and Gwartney will face Democrat Bob Willis in November.
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