Candidate Filing Opens with Early Entries in Okmulgee County

Several county, state, and judicial positions see initial filings on the first day of the 2026 candidate filing period.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:06pm

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A serene, cinematic painting of a lone ballot box or voting booth in a dimly lit room, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting deep shadows across the scene, capturing the quiet anticipation of an important election.The opening of the 2026 candidate filing period in Okmulgee County sets the stage for a pivotal election cycle that will shape the county's future.Okmulgee Today

The 2026 candidate filing period has officially opened in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, with several individuals submitting their paperwork on the first day for a variety of county, state, and judicial offices. Key county-level positions like Assessor, Treasurer, and County Commissioner saw early filings, while state-level races for State Senator and State Representative also drew initial candidates. Judicial offices like Associate District Judge and District Attorney also saw early filers.

Why it matters

The candidate filing period is a critical early step in the electoral process, as it determines who will appear on the ballot for voters to choose from in the upcoming elections. These initial filings provide an early glimpse into the potential matchups and dynamics that could shape the 2026 races affecting Okmulgee County at the county, state, and judicial levels.

The details

On the first day of the 2026 candidate filing period in Okmulgee County, several individuals submitted their paperwork for a variety of elected offices. At the county level, key leadership roles like County Assessor, County Treasurer, and County Commissioner saw early filings. The District 3 County Commissioner race is the only county contest so far featuring multiple candidates. At the state level, candidates filed for State Senator in District 8 and State Representative in District 16. Judicial offices like Associate District Judge and District Attorney for District 25 also drew initial filers.

  • The 2026 candidate filing period officially opened on April 3, 2026.
  • April 3, 2026 is Good Friday, and the courthouse will be closed on this holiday.
  • Early voting also takes place on Good Friday, and the filing office is open until 6 p.m., but the statutory filing period will close at 5 p.m.

The players

W. Haley Brice

A 35-year-old resident of Okmulgee who filed for the County Assessor position as a Republican.

W. Lindsay Bunch

A 31-year-old resident of Henryetta who filed for the County Treasurer position as a Republican.

Ernie Ferreira

A 55-year-old resident of Beggs who filed for the County Commissioner District 1 position as a Republican.

Brandon England

A 44-year-old resident of Henryetta who filed for the County Commissioner District 3 position as a Republican.

Michael Wallace

A 47-year-old resident of Morris who also filed for the County Commissioner District 3 position as a Republican.

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What’s next

The candidate filing period remains open through Friday at the Okmulgee County Election Board for those seeking local offices. All candidates must file in person during designated hours to appear on the ballot.

The takeaway

This early wave of candidate filings provides a glimpse into the potential matchups and dynamics that could shape the 2026 elections in Okmulgee County, with key county, state, and judicial offices on the ballot. Voters will want to stay engaged and informed as the candidate field continues to take shape in the coming days.