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GREENWOOD DIST. — In a mayoral race that has captivated Tulsans, Oklahoma State Representative Monroe Nichols emerged as the front-runner in last night’s election, setting the stage for a historic runoff against Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith. Neither candidate received the required 50% majority to win outright, necessitating a Tulsa mayoral runoff to determine the next mayor of Tulsa.
Nichols, a Democrat, made history as the first Black mayoral candidate in Tulsa to receive more votes than his opponents. If elected, Nichols would become the first Black Tulsan to hold the office of mayor, a significant milestone for a city still marked by the legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
“Last night, voters made it clear they’re ready to write a new chapter in Tulsa’s history,” Nichols told The Black Wall Street Times. “I’ve run a campaign focused on a vision for the future and a clear roadmap for solving our city’s challenges. The next ten weeks will set the course for the next ten years in our city, and I’m ready to deliver for Tulsans.”
Nichols’ campaign watch party, which was held at Fulton Street Books & Coffee was notable for its diversity, reflecting a broad spectrum of races, ages, and genders, underscoring his message of inclusivity and community.
Runoff Set: Nichols Tops Vote Count, Keith Close Second, VanNorman Out
With all 163 precincts reporting, Nichols secured 18,729 votes, accounting for 33.10% of the total, while Keith was close behind with 18,457 votes or 32.62%. Nichols led in both early voting and Election Day ballots, whereas Keith garnered more support through absentee mail.
Brent L. VanNorman, another key contender, finished third with 18,019 votes, or 31.84%, and will not advance to the Tulsa mayoral runoff. Other candidates, including Casey Bradford, Kaleb Hoosier, John Jolley, and Paul Tay, collectively earned less than 2.5% of the vote.
Voter turnout for the 2024 Tulsa Mayoral Race was down from 2020 by 12,739.
Keith Omits Nichols in Thank You Speech, Signaling Potential Rift
At Karen Keith’s watch party, she thanked her fellow candidates, notably omitting any mention of Nichols, which seemingly indicates her feelings or strategy regarding her upcoming runoff against him.
“I do want to take a moment to thank my fellow candidates and to Brent VanNorman and his family for their passion and commitment to our city. So to them, I say thank you,” Keith remarked.
It’s worth noting that VanNorman has been a Tulsa resident for just three years after moving from Virginia. In contrast, Nichols has lived in Tulsa since 2002, having attended the University of Tulsa and later serving under former Mayor Kathy Taylor after graduation. Moreover, he has been a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives since 2016 and is a co-founder of Impact Tulsa.
In contrast, VanNorman, who has lived in Tulsa for three years after moving from Virginia, acknowledged both of his leading opponents by name at his campaign’s watch party and his disappointment in not making it to the Tulsa mayoral runoff. “We’re disappointed; we certainly didn’t get in this race to finish third, but it is what it is. Congratulations to Monroe Nichols and Karen Keith for the job they’ve done. I wish them the best,” VanNorman told News On 6.
Tulsa Mayoral Runoff Election Set for November 5
As Tulsa moves toward the runoff, the choice between Nichols and Keith will shape the city’s leadership for years to come. The runoff is not just about electing a mayor; it represents a pivotal decision on the direction Tulsa will take. Both candidates bring distinct experiences and visions for Tulsa’s progress, making the next few weeks critical for voters.
The final Election Day for the 2024 Tulsa Mayoral Race is on Tuesday, November 5. To participate in the election, voters must register by Friday, October 11. The deadline to request an absentee ballot for the race is Monday, October 21. For more information or to register, click here.
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