T.W. Shannon Announces Run for Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor

Former Oklahoma House Speaker T.W. Shannon has officially announced his campaign for lieutenant governor, saying the decision follows time spent serving in the Trump White House and a desire to return home to help shape Oklahoma’s future.

T.W. Shannon Explains Why He’s Running for Lieutenant Governor

Shannon said his decision to run comes after serving as a senior advisor in the Trump administration following President Donald Trump’s return to office. In an interview with Emmy-winning journalist Robin Marsh on KWTV News 9, Shannon said he felt called back to Oklahoma.

“Right after the inauguration, I got a call to go serve in the Trump administration to fight every single day for the America First agenda,” Shannon said. “But now I’m ready to come home.”

Shannon said Oklahoma needs leaders who will firmly align with conservative principles and stand with Trump’s agenda at the state level.

“I just believe that right now is a time for such a time as this where we need leaders who will stand, not only stand up for what we know is right, but to stand with President Trump,” Shannon said.

Lieutenant Governor Role Gives T.W. Shannon a Statewide Platform

The T.W. Shannon lieutenant governor run is centered on what he describes as the office’s ability to influence policy direction across state government. Shannon said the position offers more than ceremonial duties.

“From a perch like Lieutenant Governor, you have an opportunity to, yes, reel in the Senate sometimes, but also to set a platform of what Due North is,” he said.

Shannon previously served as Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, giving him experience navigating legislative priorities, budgets, and negotiations at the State Capitol. Political observers note that background could appeal to Republican voters seeking experience paired with loyalty to Trump’s policy agenda.

Crowded 2026 Field Takes Shape

Shannon joins a growing Republican field that includes State Auditor Cindy Byrd, Victor Flores, Brian Hill, J.J. Humphrey, and Daryl Weaver. On the Democratic side, declared candidates include Kelly Forbes and Candace J.

According to the Oklahoma State Election Board, the lieutenant governor race will appear on the 2026 ballot, with filing periods expected later this year.

Campaign activity is expected to intensify as candidates begin fundraising and statewide outreach.

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