Statement from Senate Pres. Pro Tempore Brian Bingman on passing of former Assistant Sec. of the Senate, Currie Ballard

Currie Ballard was an extraordinary individual. He was a respected historian and journalist as well as a dedicated public servant. He was not defined or limited by his past, but rather, he was strengthened by it. Currie was an inspiration to many, including me. I feel so fortunate to have known him and to have had the opportunity to work with him in the State Senate. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends, and we join them in mourning the loss of this truly great Oklahoman. Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman.

Currie Ballard served as Assistant Secretary of the Senate from 2009 through 2010, and was believed to have been the first African-American to serve as a member of the Senate leadership staff. Senate Resolution 105 was approved in 2010, praising his public service and congratulating him upon his induction into the Oklahoma Historians Hall of Fame.