Former Oklahoma Representative Sheila Dills has announced she is running for Oklahoma House District 69, saying the area needs experienced leadership to continue advancing conservative policy priorities.
Dills, a business owner from Jenks, previously represented South Tulsa, Jenks and Bixby in the Oklahoma House from 2018 to 2022. She said her campaign will focus on education reform, addressing Oklahoma’s mental health challenges and improving government accountability.
“Our community deserves leadership that understands how government works and knows how to deliver results,” Dills said. “During my time in the Legislature, I worked to protect taxpayers, improve transparency and fight for stronger schools. I’m running again because there is more work to do.”
Dills launched her campaign with a $100,000 personal loan to her campaign committee.
The seat is expected to be open following the decision by Oklahoma Representative Mark Tedford to run for Congress.
“Representative Tedford has been a strong conservative leader for our district, and I appreciate his service,” Dills said. “As he pursues his campaign for Congress, I believe our community needs experienced leadership that can continue delivering results for our families and businesses.”
Tedford praised Dills’ record during her previous time in the Legislature.
“Sheila Dills is a proven conservative leader with a strong track record of results,” Tedford said. “She listens to her constituents, understands the issues facing our district and has the experience to continue delivering for our community.”
During her legislative service, Dills served as assistant majority floor leader and later as chairman of the House Majority Caucus. She also served on several committees, including Common Education, Health Services and Long Term Care, Appropriations and Budget, Education Appropriations, Utilities, and County and Municipal Government.
Dills authored House Bill 1395, legislation aimed at strengthening oversight of public funds and improving transparency in state government.
After leaving office, Dills returned to the private sector and founded a French bakery in downtown Jenks. She previously built a career in real estate and business and earned a degree in broadcast journalism from Oklahoma State University.
