The State Election Board late today certified Congressman Markwayne Mullin as the winner of the 2nd congressional district election, thus eliminating the need for a special election. The Board vote was 3-0.
The Board heard from the attorney general’s office, which ruled that federal law that applies to congressional races trumps a state law that allows for a special election when a candidate dies shortly before election day. Federal law says the general election for Congress shall be on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November. Therefore, to hold a special election on a different date, as envisioned in the state law, would be impermissible in this contest under that law.
The Oklahoma Democtstic Party said it will appeal the decision.
