District Judge Lee Turner Announces Re-election Bid

Turner seeks third term on the bench in Oklahoma's Eighth Judicial District

Mar. 28, 2026 at 11:06am

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A dimly lit courtroom with wooden benches and a judge's bench in the center, the scene bathed in warm, golden light streaming through tall windows, conveying a sense of quiet authority and tradition.The re-election of an experienced district judge could provide much-needed stability and continuity for the Eighth Judicial District.Ponca City Today

District Judge Lee Turner has announced his candidacy for re-election as District Judge for the Eighth Judicial District, which serves Kay and Noble Counties in Oklahoma. Turner was first elected to the bench in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, and prior to that served over six years as a Special Judge starting in 2012.

Why it matters

Judge Turner's re-election bid comes as the Eighth Judicial District faces ongoing challenges related to the opioid crisis and rising crime rates in the region. His continued leadership on the bench would provide stability and experience during this critical period.

The details

Turner has served a total of 14 years in judicial roles, first as a Special Judge starting in 2012 before being elected District Judge in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. He presides over cases in the Eighth Judicial District, which encompasses Kay and Noble Counties in north-central Oklahoma.

  • Turner was first appointed as a Special Judge in 2012.
  • He was elected District Judge in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.
  • Turner is now announcing his candidacy for a third term as District Judge in 2026.

The players

Lee Turner

District Judge for the Eighth Judicial District in Oklahoma, serving Kay and Noble Counties.

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What they’re saying

“I am proud of the work we have done on the bench to serve the people of Kay and Noble Counties, and I look forward to continuing that service if re-elected.”

— Lee Turner, District Judge

What’s next

Voters in Kay and Noble Counties will have the opportunity to re-elect Judge Turner in the 2026 election.

The takeaway

Judge Turner's re-election bid highlights the importance of judicial experience and stability, especially in districts facing complex social challenges. His continued leadership could provide much-needed continuity on the bench for the Eighth Judicial District.