Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has an early edge for the Republican nomination in the 2026 governor’s race. That’s according to a recent poll taken by Cole, Hargrave, Snodgrass, and Associates (CHS).
In the latest Sooner Survey, CHS’ poll shows Drummond at 39% among those candidates either confirmed or rumored to be running for governor. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters, who has not officially declared a campaign for the office, is at 12%. Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell is the only other possible candidate currently at double digits with 10-percent of likely Republican primary voters surveyed.
The poll shows that 31% have yet to make up their mind on who they will vote for in the Republican primary which is a little more than a year away.
CHS President Pat McFerron notes that while Drummond has a solid lead, there is a pathway for Walters to win the nomination. Because of Walters’ strength among Republican voters who have participated in the last five primary elections, if turnout is low that could lead to a run-off election.
You can read the Sooner Survey here.
