Oklahoma's Congressional Seats: Who Is Running?

As we look at these races for Oklahoma's congressional seats, it's hard to ignore the fact that it is very rare for an incumbent to lose, not just in a general election, but especially in a primary election.

In fact, you have to go back 12 years. That was the last time it happened in Oklahoma. 

So let's take a look at the five congressional races, neither Senate seat is up for grabs this cycle. So two of the incumbents have no primary opponent today.

U.S. Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.) knows his opponents in November, Brandon Wade (D) and Ronnie Hopkins (I). 

It's a similar situation in the fifth district where U.S. Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) (who drew no Republican opponent) will be facing Madison Horn (D) in November. 

In the first district, U.S. Congressman Kevin Hern (I-Okla.) is being challenged Tuesday by Paul Royse.

Hern is seeking his fourth full term since replacing Jim Bridenstine back in 2018.

In the third district, the dean of the delegation, Congressman Frank Lucas (I-Okla.) is seeking re-election for the 16th time. 

Now he'll have to get past two challengers Robin Carder and Darren Hamilton. 

In the fourth district, Tom Cole holds one of the most powerful positions in Congress, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee is being challenged by four Republicans. Challengers include Paul Bondar, a political newcomer with deep pockets who spent more than $4 million on this race trying to oust Tom Cole. 

That race has gotten quite a bit of national attention.