Successful small business owner and former English teacher, Jacqueline Stevenson Smith announced this week her candidacy for state House District 60.
Smith, a Republican, owns Tooters, a popular convenience store in El Reno known for its fried chicken. She was raised working at the store with her grandfather and purchased it after he died.
Smith is a conservative who is pro-life, supports the Second Amendment, and has her concealed carry license. She understands that Oklahoma needs strong management skills like those required to successfully run a small-town business.
She also has a deep appreciation for education, and taught English for six years in Hefner and another eight years at Etta Dale Junior High. She and her husband, Jeremiah Smith, a diesel mechanic and lifelong El Reno resident, attend Life Church in Yukon. They have served as foster parents for five children.
Smith continues to invest her time in Oklahoma’s kids and the community as cheer sponsor at El Reno High School, which takes her to the school every day to assist the squad. She obtained her commercial driver’s license (CDL) so she can drive her students to athletic events and competitions.
“I love kids, and I love being a part of their lives,” Smith said. “I’ll do whatever it takes — drive the bus, be there for them night and day — to set a good example and help them have a brighter future.
“We need leaders with common sense, people who will end the dysfunction that is governing our state,” she said. “That’s why I’m running, and that’s what I’ll do.”
Smith said she will put her experience teaching, building relationships, running a small business and making ends meet to work for central Oklahoma.
“I was an educator for 14 years, and now I’m a small business owner. I’m fed up with what’s going at the Capitol.
“I promise to be a powerful advocate for change, for investing in our kids and teachers, and making wise business decisions to grow our economy,” she said.
Smith is a graduate of Oklahoma State University, receiving her bachelor’s degree in English for secondary education in 2000. She grew up rodeoing with her family during the summers in El Reno.
“My grandfather taught me to work hard and stand up for what I believe in,” Smith said.
“I’m proud to continue his legacy as both a small business owner who serves customers every day, as well as a former educator who remains passionate about our schools. I think a little more of that combined with some common sense will go a long way in the state House.”
Smith promises to wage an aggressive campaign. “It’s time for dramatic change in Oklahoma, and it will require strong leaders to bring it about.”
The House District 60 seat is currently held by fellow Republican Rhonda Baker who was first elected to the position in 2016.
