New Oklahoma law reshapes Tulsa County DA race

Incumbent and challenger clash over handling of abuse survivor cases under new state statute

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The race for Tulsa County district attorney is centering on how candidates would handle cases under the Oklahoma Survivors Act, a new state law that has seen every local application denied so far. Incumbent DA Steve Kunzweiler defends closely scrutinizing each case, while challenger attorney Colleen McCarty argues his office's approach undermines abuse survivors seeking relief.

Why it matters

The Oklahoma Survivors Act is a controversial new law that aims to provide relief for abuse survivors, but its local implementation has faced challenges. The Tulsa County DA race has become a referendum on how prosecutors should approach these sensitive cases, with implications for victim support and public safety.

The details

Under the Oklahoma Survivors Act, abuse survivors can petition to have their criminal records expunged. However, Tulsa County DA Steve Kunzweiler has denied every local application so far, arguing each case requires close examination. His challenger, attorney Colleen McCarty, says this approach undermines the law's intent to help victims. The race has become a flashpoint, with both candidates making their handling of these cases a central campaign issue.

  • The Oklahoma Survivors Act was passed into law in 2025.

The players

Steve Kunzweiler

The incumbent Tulsa County district attorney who has denied every local application under the Oklahoma Survivors Act.

Colleen McCarty

The attorney challenging Kunzweiler for the Tulsa County district attorney position, arguing his office's approach to the Oklahoma Survivors Act undermines abuse survivors.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.