Senate Republicans elect leadership team

Following the swearing-in of new and returning Senators on Tuesday, Senate Republicans met in caucus to elect their leadership team for the 55th Oklahoma Legislature. Without opposition, Sen. Brian Bingman was reelected as President Pro Tempore-Nominee of the Senate. Bingman also announced that Sen. Mike Schulz will continue to serve as Majority Floor Leader for the 55th Legislature. Majority Caucus Chair Bryce Marlatt and Majority Caucus Vice Chair A.J. Griffin were also elected without opposition.

In addition, the Senate Republican Caucus elected assistant majority floor leaders and majority whips on Tuesday.

“I’m grateful to our caucus for once again entrusting me with this responsibility, and I look forward to working together as we advance the state of Oklahoma,” said Bingman, R-Sapulpa. “The eight new members of our caucus bring a diverse array of experience and a dedication to serve the people of their districts. We will continue working to ensure Oklahoma remains a leader in economic development and job growth for years to come.”

Senate Republicans also elected the following members to leadership posts Tuesday:

Assistant Majority Floor Leaders:
Sen. Rick Brinkley
Sen. Eddie Fields
Sen. Greg Treat

Majority Whips:
Sen. Nathan Dahm
Sen. Kim David
Sen. Frank Simpson
Sen. Rob Standridge

Majority Caucus Chair:
Sen. Bryce Marlatt

Majority Caucus Vice Chair:
Sen. A.J. Griffin

“I congratulate this fine group of Senators on their election to Senate leadership,” Bingman said. “These men and women will be instrumental in our efforts to advance conservative policy.”

The 55th Legislature will include eight new Republican Senators. Four Senate seats have switched from Democrat to Republican, including Marty Quinn (District 2), Joseph Silk (District 5), Roger Thompson (District 8), and Darcy Jech (District 26). The Senate will also welcome four freshmen in seats previously held by Republicans with the addition of Senators Stephanie Bice (District 22), Jason Smalley (District 28), Ervin Yen (District 40), and Jack Fry (District 42).

The Senate will meet for organizational day on Jan. 6, where leaders will be formally elected and rules for the 2015 session will be passed.