Key House Leaders Back Christian In Sheriff’s Race

Key leaders of the Oklahoma House of Representatives are supporting former Representative Mike Christian in his bid for Sheriff.

Speaker Charles McCall, Majority Floor Leader John Echols, and Appropriations and Budget Chair Leslie Osborn said today they are backing their former colleague in the upcoming special election.

Speaker McCall noted Christian’s prior leadership of the House Committee on Public Safety as a strong qualification.

“Representative Christian served as a very effective Chairman of Public Safety, where he made it a priority to support law enforcement and protect the public,” said McCall. “He is well-prepared and fully qualified to serve as Sheriff.”

Majority Floor Leader Jon Echols, who represents a large portion of southwest Oklahoma County, said Christian’s leadership on the jail crisis is a key reason for his support.

“As an Oklahoma County taxpayer, I know how important it is to solve the jail crisis,” said Echols. “Representative Christian has a detailed plan that will build a new jail without raising taxes. We can’t afford a different approach.”

Appropriations and Budget Chair Leslie Osborn said Christian is the best qualified candidate.

“Serving with Representative Christian, I learned he is a quality leader with detailed knowledge about public safety issues in Oklahoma,” said Osborn.  “No one is better qualified to serve as the next Sheriff.”

Christian said he is honored to have the support of his former colleagues, and mentioned that other legislators will be announced in the coming days.

“I think it says a lot when a colleague is willing to publicly support you like this,” said Christian. “I’m thankful for their confidence and willingness to voice their support. I’m looking forward to announcing others who have agreed to endorse my campaign in the coming days. I’m honored and overwhelmed by all the support I have been receiving, and I look forward to sharing more good news in the coming days.”

The special primary election for Oklahoma County Sheriff has been scheduled for April 4.